Jet Airways Founder Naresh Goyal Receives Four-Week Extension on Temporary Bail

The Bombay High Court has granted Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal a four-week extension on his temporary bail, initially granted in May. This decision comes amidst ongoing legal proceedings and health concerns.

Historical Context: Jet Airways, once one of India’s largest airlines, was founded by Naresh Goyal in 1993. The airline faced severe financial difficulties and suspended operations in April 2019. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Goyal on September 1, 2023, in connection with a money-laundering case. The ED alleges that Goyal laundered money and misappropriated loans amounting to ₹538.62 crore provided by Canara Bank to Jet Airways.

Legal Proceedings: Goyal’s legal team, represented by advocates Aabad Ponda and Ameet Naik, argued for the bail extension on medical grounds. Goyal is scheduled for urgent Laparoscopic Fundoplication surgery within four weeks, as advised by his doctor. The advocates highlighted Goyal’s deteriorating health, exacerbated by the recent loss of his wife, which has led to severe depression and suicidal thoughts.

The High Court, presided over by Justice N.J. Jamadar, directed Goyal to submit a detailed affidavit outlining his medical condition, required treatments, and the duration of these treatments. The court emphasized that the extension of interim bail cannot be indefinite.

Arguments and Counterarguments: The ED, represented by advocates Hiten Venegaonkar and Aayush Kedia, questioned the authenticity of Goyal’s medical certificates and suggested that he be examined by doctors from Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital. Goyal’s legal team opposed this, citing his traumatic experiences related to his wife’s treatment at the same hospital.

Court’s Decision: The High Court granted Goyal an extension on his interim bail, initially set for two months starting May 6, 2023. Goyal was required to pay ₹1 lakh with sureties, surrender his passport, and remain within the jurisdiction of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court in Mumbai. His request for permanent bail on medical grounds was previously denied by a special PMLA court on April 10, 2024, prompting him to approach the High Court.

Summary:

• Naresh Goyal, founder of Jet Airways, receives a four-week extension on temporary bail.
• Goyal was arrested by the ED on September 1, 2023, for alleged money laundering and misappropriation of ₹538.62 crore.
• Goyal’s bail extension is based on urgent medical needs and deteriorating health.
• The High Court directed Goyal to submit a detailed affidavit on his medical condition.
• The ED questioned the authenticity of Goyal’s medical certificates.
• Goyal’s initial interim bail was granted on May 6, 2023, with specific conditions.
• His request for permanent bail was denied on April 10, 2024, by a special PMLA court.

Note: Those experiencing distress or suicidal thoughts are encouraged to seek help and counseling through available resources.