A Delhi court has taken a significant step in the high-profile extortion case involving alleged conman Sukesh Chandrasekhar. On Saturday, the court issued a formal notice to the complainant based on an application filed by Chandrasekhar, who is currently in judicial custody. The application seeks the court's permission to settle the massive financial extortion case, which involves a staggering sum of approximately Rs 217 crore.
Details of the Settlement Proposal
The application was presented before Additional Sessions Judge Prashant Sharma. In his plea, Sukesh Chandrasekhar, who is already in custody in connection with a separate Rs 200 crore extortion case, has made a formal offer to pay the entire claimed amount of Rs 217 crore to the complainant, Aditi Singh. This proposal is presented as a potential settlement to resolve the legal dispute.
Chandrasekhar's legal team was careful to clarify the context of this offer. They stated that the proposal was being made "without prejudice" to his legal rights and defenses. This crucial legal phrasing means that the offer to pay should not be construed as an admission of guilt or liability on his part. The applicant urged the court to formally record and acknowledge this settlement proposal as a genuine attempt at resolution, contingent solely upon receiving the consent of the complainant, Aditi Singh.
Court's Directive and Next Steps
After considering the submissions made in the application, the court directed its staff to issue an official notice to the complainant, Aditi Singh. This notice will inform her of Chandrasekhar's settlement offer and seek her response or consent regarding the proposed resolution. The court has scheduled the next hearing in this matter for January 8. On that date, the court will further consider the plea based on the complainant's reply and any additional arguments from both sides.
This development introduces a potential pathway to conclude one of the most financially substantial extortion cases currently being heard in the capital's courts. The outcome of the settlement proposal hinges entirely on the complainant's decision. If Aditi Singh agrees to the terms, it could lead to an out-of-court resolution. However, if she rejects the offer, the legal proceedings will continue as per standard judicial process. The court's role at this juncture is to facilitate communication and ensure any settlement is voluntary and legally sound.