Actor Jacqueline Fernandez is facing a major setback in the high-profile Rs 200 crore money laundering case linked to alleged conman Sukesh Chandrasekhar. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has vehemently opposed her application seeking permission to turn approver in the matter, submitting a strong response before the Patiala House Court in Delhi.
Jacqueline had approached the court to cooperate with the investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. However, the ED argues that her past conduct does not justify such relief, marking a critical turn in the ongoing legal battle.
ED's Strong Objections and Allegations
The Enforcement Directorate's objections stem from several key points:
• Significant Beneficiary: The ED claims Jacqueline was a "significant beneficiary" of the alleged proceeds of crime.
• Active Participation: She is accused of actively participating in the money laundering process.
• Weakening Charges: Granting approver status would, according to the agency, dilute the seriousness of the charges.
• Continued Contact: The agency alleges she remained in contact with Sukesh Chandrasekhar despite being aware of his criminal background.
• Proceeds of Crime: Expensive gifts, luxury items, and financial benefits she received were allegedly sourced directly from the proceeds of the crime.
Inconsistent Statements and Withholding Information
The ED has also highlighted discrepancies in Jacqueline's cooperation during the probe:
• Inconsistent Statements: Her statements recorded under Section 50 of the PMLA were described as inconsistent and incomplete.
• Confronted with Evidence: Investigators reportedly had to repeatedly confront her with evidence during questioning.
• Withheld Information: She allegedly withheld crucial information regarding cash dealings, costly gifts, bank transactions, and associations with individuals linked to the case, including Pinky Irani.
The agency maintains that these actions contradict her claim of being an "unwitting victim" and instead point towards conscious involvement. They further argued that her statement under Section 164 Cr.P.C. and willingness to cooperate in the predicate offence do not erase her alleged role in the separate money laundering offence.
Legal Journey and Next Steps This case has a history of legal challenges from the actress. Earlier attempts by Jacqueline to quash the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) and supplementary complaint were dismissed by the Delhi High Court in 2025, with her subsequent challenge to the Supreme Court of India also being dismissed later that year.
The legal proceedings are currently at the stage of arguments on charges. Following the ED's objections, the court has now sought Jacqueline Fernandez's response, and the matter is scheduled for further hearing soon. This development intensifies the scrutiny on the Bollywood star's involvement in the high-profile money laundering scandal.
