Naresh Goyal’s bail plea on medical grounds rejected by PMLA court

MUMBAI: A special PMLA court on Wednesday rejected the bail sought on medical grounds by Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal. Rejecting his bail plea, special judge MG Deshpande, however, said that as per the earlier order his hospitalization is continued. “The applicant may consult and can take second opinion of the cancer experts in Tata Memorial Hospital..to overcome his illness or else ED may also approach Tata Memorial Hospital with all the medical papers of the applicant..,” the judge said. The judge noted that he was better looked after in the hospital.

Arrested in September last year in a Rs 538 crore money laundering case, Goyal (74) is suffering from cancer and following a February order, is undergoing treatment at the Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital. His interim bail plea was rejected in February.

Seeking bail, his lawyers submitted that there has been a significant change in circumstances on account of the detection of malignancy and its spread, the treatment for which is life threatening and high risk. It was also submitted that in order to reduce the risk of fatality in the treatment, Goyal would need a clean and sterile environment and constant medical care and attention. It was also submitted that Goyal’s mental health was deteriorating and he was severely depressed and expresses a dread of the future, suicidal ideation and a sense of hopeless resignation. The advanced cancer of his wife was also cited as a grounds. “The applicant submits that denying him medical bail at this stage may well be writing his death warrant as it is obvious that he would not survive - maybe not even long enough to see the commencement (much less conclusion) of his trial. Denying the applicant bail would be a travesty and would negate even the basic human rights..,” the plea said.

Opposing his bail plea, the Enforcement Directorate, however, said that the court has appropriately and sufficiently addressed Goyal’s concerns of in the previous application itself. “It is also relevant to mention herein that there is no significant change in circumstances which warrants the urgent and immediate need of the applicant to prefer the instant application for seeking bail on medical grounds,” the prosecution said.


Explore the yearly horoscope 2025 for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces zodiac signs. Spread love this holiday season with these New Year wishes, messages and quotes.