In a significant relief for veteran comedian Rajpal Yadav, the Delhi High Court on Monday granted him interim bail in a long-standing ₹9 crore cheque bounce case. The actor, who had been lodged in Tihar Jail for over a week following his surrender, is expected to be released later today.
Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma granted the bail until the next hearing on March 18, 2026. The decision came after the complainant, M/S Murli Project, confirmed that Yadav had successfully deposited ₹1.5 crore into their bank accounts as directed by the court.
Terms of the Bail
To secure his temporary freedom, the court imposed the following conditions:
- Financial Deposit: ₹1.5 crore paid to the complainant (already completed).
- Bail Bond: A personal bond of ₹1 lakh.
- Surety: One surety of a matching amount.
- Deadline: The actor is expected to use this period to arrange the remaining balance of the debt to avoid further sentencing.
Background: A Decade-Old Financial Battle
The legal trouble dates back to 2010 when Rajpal Yadav borrowed ₹5 crore from Murali Projects Pvt Ltd to fund his directorial debut, Ata Pata Laapata.
- 2012: The film failed at the box office, leaving Yadav unable to repay the loan.
- 2018: A Magisterial Court convicted Yadav and his wife, Radha, under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act after seven cheques bounced.
- 2024-2026: Despite multiple extensions and suspended sentences, the debt swelled to ₹9 crore. On February 2, 2026, the Delhi HC ordered his surrender after he failed to fulfill repeated repayment undertakings.
Bollywood Rallies Behind the Actor
The film industry has shown strong solidarity with Yadav during his incarceration:
- Sonu Sood: Signed Yadav for an upcoming project and provided an undisclosed signing bonus to assist with the legal dues.
- Industry Giants: Salman Khan and Ajay Devgn reportedly reached out to Yadav’s family, while the FWICE (Federation of Western India Cine Employees) urged members to support the actor.
- Family Statement: Yadav’s wife, Radha, confirmed receiving significant help from the fraternity, though many contributors chose to remain anonymous.