Rajpal Yadav Released: Delhi High Court Suspends Jail Sentence
In a major legal relief for veteran Bollywood comedian and actor Rajpal Yadav, the Delhi High Court (DHC) has ordered the interim suspension of his jail sentence. This development comes just weeks after the actor surrendered to serve time in a long-standing financial dispute.
On February 16, 2026, Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma granted the actor relief until March 18, 2026, allowing him to reunite with his family ahead of a significant personal milestone.
Why did Rajpal Yadav get Interim Relief?
The court’s decision to suspend the sentence was influenced by a combination of financial compliance and personal grounds. Here are the primary reasons for the suspension:
Significant Financial Deposit: The court noted that Yadav had successfully deposited ₹1.5 crore into the bank account of the complainant, M/s Murali Projects Pvt Ltd. This was viewed by the court as a "genuine measure" to settle the outstanding dues.
Family Obligations: Rajpal Yadav had filed an application seeking interim suspension to attend his niece's wedding, which is scheduled for February 19, 2026.
Previous Conduct: While the court previously criticized the delay in payments, the recent deposit showed a willingness to comply with legal mandates.
The Background: A ₹5 Crore Loan Dispute
The legal battle dates back to 2010 when Rajpal Yadav took a loan of ₹5 crore from a Delhi-based businessman to fund his directorial debut film, Ata Pata Laapata. Due to non-repayment over the years, the amount, including interest, reportedly escalated to nearly ₹9 crore.
After multiple payment deadlines were missed, the actor surrendered at Tihar Jail on February 4, 2026, following a court order.
Bail Conditions and Restrictions
While the actor is walking out of jail, he remains under strict judicial supervision:
Personal Bond: He must furnish a personal bond of ₹1 lakh with a surety of the same amount.
Travel Restrictions: His passport remains surrendered to the court, and he is strictly prohibited from leaving the country without prior permission.
Future Hearings: He is required to appear before the court—either physically or virtually—for the next hearing on March 18, 2026.
Industry Reaction and Support
The news has brought a wave of relief to Rajpal Yadav’s fans and colleagues. Reports suggest that several industry heavyweights, including Salman Khan and Sonu Sood, have been supportive of the actor during this legal turmoil. Known for his iconic comic timing in films like Hungama and Bhool Bhulaiyaa, the industry hopes for a permanent resolution to his financial legalities.
Conclusion
The Delhi High Court's intervention serves as a temporary breather for the actor. While the ₹1.5 crore deposit has opened the doors for his interim release, the final settlement of the remaining dues will determine his long-term legal standing.
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