Indian Government Steps In For Retired Army Officer Detained in UAE
The Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed it is providing comprehensive support to retired Major Vikrant Kumar Jaitly, who has been detained in the United Arab Emirates since September 2024. The development has gained significant attention as Major Jaitly is the brother of Bollywood actress Celina Jaitly.
Consular Access and Family Coordination
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the Indian government has conducted four consular visits to check on Major Jaitly's welfare and has been closely coordinating with his family members. The retired army officer, who has been residing in the UAE since 2016 and worked for a trading and risk-management firm, has had minimal communication with the outside world since his detention.
The case took a significant turn when the Delhi High Court issued directions on November 3, 2025, mandating the government to ensure robust legal representation for the detained former army officer. The court specifically instructed the appointment of a nodal officer to maintain regular liaison with UAE authorities regarding the case.
Legal Proceedings and Future Steps
The judicial process continues to move forward with the next hearing scheduled for December 4, 2025. The Indian government's intervention comes as part of its standard protocol to assist citizens facing legal challenges abroad, particularly those who have served in the armed forces.
Major Vikrant's situation highlights the challenges faced by Indian expatriates in foreign countries and demonstrates the government's commitment to providing necessary diplomatic and legal support. The MEA has assured that it will continue to offer all possible assistance within the framework of UAE laws and bilateral agreements between the two nations.
Family members and well-wishers await further developments in the case as the December court date approaches, hoping for a positive resolution to the retired army officer's detention situation.
