Actor Rajpal Yadav Granted Interim Bail by Delhi High Court in Rs.9 Crore Cheque Bounce Case

India: In a significant development, the Delhi High Court on Monday granted interim bail to veteran Bollywood comedian Rajpal Yadav in a long-standing cheque bounce case involving dues of approximately Rs.9 crore. The court’s decision allows the actor to walk out of Tihar Jail, where he has been lodged since February 5, 2026.

Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma suspended Yadav’s sentence and approved interim bail until March 18, 2026, when the matter is scheduled for the next hearing. The relief was conditional on the actor depositing Rs.1.5 crore via demand draft by 3 PM on the day of the hearing, as part of ongoing efforts to settle the outstanding amount.

Yadav’s lawyer informed the court during proceedings that the actor was prepared to make the payment, with prior deposits including Rs.25 lakh and Rs.75 lakh already submitted via demand drafts. The judge emphasized that compliance with the deadline would result in immediate release; failure to do so would lead to the case being taken up again.

The case stems from a decade-old dispute linked to a loan taken for Yadav’s 2010 film Ata Pata Laapata. Multiple cheques issued for repayment were dishonored, leading to convictions in lower courts, including a six-month sentence upheld in appeals. In June 2024, the High Court had temporarily suspended the sentence to allow repayment, but the actor’s failure to fully honor commitments prompted the recent surrender order.

Yadav sought interim bail primarily to attend his niece’s wedding, with support from industry figures such as Salman Khan, Ajay Devgn, and Sonu Sood reportedly aiding in moral and financial assistance. His wife, Radha Yadav, had earlier clarified rumors of an earlier release, confirming he remained in custody until today’s ruling.

The total liability, originally around ₹5 crore plus interest and penalties, has seen partial payments, including about Rs.2.5 crore reported so far, amid ongoing negotiations. The interim bail provides temporary respite while the substantive repayment and final resolution remain pending.

This ruling underscores the court’s insistence on accountability in financial disputes, even for public figures, while offering a window for compliance. Further updates are expected as the March 18 hearing approaches.