Delhi High Court Extends Time for Diplomatic Resolution in Major Jaitly's UAE Detention
In a significant development, the Delhi High Court has granted additional time to the Indian government to pursue diplomatic channels regarding the detention of Major (Retired) Vikrant Kumar Jaitly in the United Arab Emirates. The case, which has been championed by his sister, actress Celina Jaitly, continues to unfold with new legal and diplomatic maneuvers.
Background of the Case and Celina Jaitly's Petition
Celina Jaitly has been engaged in a prolonged legal battle to secure the return of her brother, who has been detained in the UAE since September 2024. In her petition filed with the Delhi High Court, she alleged that Major Vikrant Jaitly was unlawfully abducted and has remained in detention without clear legal standing or access to consular assistance. The actress expressed frustration over the lack of progress, noting that despite more than a year passing, the Indian government had failed to obtain even basic information about his well-being or the circumstances of his detention.
Earlier this month, the court provided some relief by directing the Ministry of External Affairs to formally appoint the legal firm Al Maree Partners to represent Major Jaitly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This firm has agreed to take up the case on a pro bono basis, offering legal support without charge. The court also inquired whether efforts could be made to establish contact with Major Jaitly and facilitate communication, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Recent Court Proceedings and Diplomatic Efforts
According to a fresh update reported by ANI, on Tuesday, the Delhi High Court granted additional time to the Centre and the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi to continue diplomatic efforts and seek cooperation from UAE authorities. During the hearing, the Centre's counsel informed Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav that the Indian Embassy had sought consular access to Vikrant Jaitly on February 13. However, UAE authorities declined this request, and a new date for such access is still awaited.
The government's lawyer requested a period of three to four weeks to allow the Ministry of External Affairs and the embassy to pursue the matter through diplomatic channels and secure the necessary cooperation. In response, the court observed, "The prayer seems to be reasonable. Accordingly, the hearing is deferred." The bench further remarked, "It is not the case of the ministry not doing anything… After 10-15 days, nothing is going to change. The ministry says grant us 3-4 weeks so that we can do something substantial," underscoring that diplomatic engagement requires time and patience.
Legal Representation and Future Steps
The legal firm Al Maree Partners was proposed by Celina Jaitly's counsel, Raghav Kacker, who was assisted by Advocates Madhav Agrawal and Suradhish Vats. It was submitted before the court that the firm is prepared to represent Major (Retd.) Vikrant Jaitly free of charge and has independently accessed the case details, indicating a proactive approach to the legal proceedings.
As the case moves forward, the focus remains on diplomatic efforts to resolve the detention. The court's decision to grant additional time reflects an understanding of the complexities involved in international legal and diplomatic matters. Celina Jaitly's continued advocacy highlights the personal and legal challenges faced by families in such cross-border disputes, with hopes pinned on a swift and just resolution.
