Rajpal Yadav Seeks Delhi High Court Nod to Travel Abroad Amid Ongoing Cheque-Bounce Case — Diwali in Dubai on the Line

Actor Rajpal Yadav has moved the Delhi High Court asking for permission to travel to Dubai to attend a Diwali event, even as a cheque-bounce case against him is still active.

In his application, Rajpal claims he’s been invited by Bihari Global Connect to serve as a guest of honor at a Diwali celebration scheduled between October 17 and 20.  He argues that since his conviction in the case is under challenge via a revision petition before the High Court, he should not be barred from attending the event.

The Delhi High Court, led by Justice Ravinder Dudeja, has issued notices to the Delhi Police and Murli Projects Private Limited — the complainant in the case — asking them to respond to Yadav’s plea. The case is listed for further hearing on October 14.

Rajpal’s past record in similar matters could shape the court’s decision. Earlier this year, the High Court had allowed him to travel to Melbourne for promotional events even while a case involving him was sub judice. His counsel has also reminded the court that in earlier instances, such travel permissions were granted under conditions like furnishing guarantees and cooperating with authorities.

Why this is controversial:

• Granting travel rights to an accused during an ongoing legal case often raises questions of preferential treatment. Critics argue it suggests the system affords celebrities leeway not available to ordinary litigants.

• The timing and purpose — a Diwali event abroad — could be viewed as nonessential travel, making the request harder to justify in the eyes of law enforcement or the judiciary.

• If the court grants permission, it may set or reinforce a precedent for public figures to seek and obtain mobility even when legal obligations or probes are ongoing.

• On the flip side, denying his request could be perceived as punitive, especially if past permissions were granted. The court will have to strike a balance between legal accountability and fairness.

As the October 14 hearing approaches, all eyes will be on whether the court treats Rajpal like any other litigant or upholds the subtle perks often extended to celebrities.