Jacqueline Fernandez's Plea Rejected in Money Laundering Case Involving Sukesh Chandrashekhar
Jacqueline Fernandez's Legal Troubles Deepen
Actress Jacqueline Fernandez has sought to become an approver in the ongoing Rs 200 crore money laundering investigation linked to conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar. However, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has opposed her application, asserting that she is not merely a minor participant but a significant beneficiary of the illicit funds. The ED contends that she actively engaged in the money laundering operations for which Sukesh is currently incarcerated. Following this, Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Prashant Sharma of the Patiala House Court has instructed her to respond to the ED's objections, scheduling the next hearing for May 12.
Reasons Behind ED's Opposition to Jacqueline's Plea
According to reports from Bar And Bench, Jacqueline maintained 'regular and sustained' communication with Sukesh, fully aware of his criminal history. The ED further argued that granting her approver status could diminish the seriousness of her alleged offenses. They highlighted that Sukesh provided her with gifts and benefits sourced from the proceeds of his criminal activities.
The agency emphasized that Jacqueline was cognizant of Sukesh’s illegal activities and, despite knowing his true identity and background, continued to associate with him while accepting valuable gifts. The ED described her assertion of being a 'victim' as self-serving and inconsistent with the evidence presented. Furthermore, they noted that Jacqueline has not cooperated fully during the investigation, failing to provide complete and honest disclosures across five recorded statements.
Overview of the Case
Sukesh is accused of defrauding a woman named Aditi Singh of nearly Rs 200 crores over several months, posing as a high-ranking government official and communicating with her on behalf of the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and the Home Minister.
Jacqueline's Ongoing Legal Battle
In 2025, the ED dismissed Jacqueline’s request to quash the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) and the supplementary chargesheet related to the money laundering case. She claimed that the evidence presented by the ED would demonstrate her innocence, arguing that she was a victim of Sukesh's deceitful actions. Jacqueline contended that there was no proof of her involvement in facilitating his alleged money laundering activities and that she should not be prosecuted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002. The ED countered her claims in the Delhi High Court, asserting that she continued to accept gifts from Sukesh despite being aware of his criminal past.