New Delhi (Web Desk) – Bollywood actress Jacqueline Fernandez has approached the Supreme Court of India seeking to quash a $24 million money laundering case filed against her.
According to Indian media reports, the 44-year-old actress filed the plea after the Delhi High Court dismissed her earlier request in July to terminate proceedings initiated by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).
Background of the Case
The case is linked to alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar, who faces charges of running a massive financial fraud. Investigators claim Chandrashekhar used the laundered money to build relationships with celebrities, including Jacqueline.
In July, Jacqueline had filed a petition arguing that she was merely a victim of Chandrashekhar’s deception, not a participant in any illegal financial activity.
Jacqueline’s Stand
In her latest appeal, Jacqueline has reiterated that:
She never engaged in laundering illicit funds.
No proceeds of crime or illegal assets were ever found in her possession.
She became entangled in the case only because of her association with Sukesh Chandrashekhar, whom she claims manipulated and misled her.
Court Proceedings So Far
The Delhi High Court had earlier rejected her plea, observing that there was sufficient ground to continue proceedings under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Following that setback, the actress has now sought relief from the Supreme Court, requesting the First Information Report (FIR) against her be cancelled.
Impact on Career
The ongoing legal battle has significantly impacted Jacqueline’s professional life. While she continues to appear in Bollywood projects and public events, the cloud of the money laundering case has repeatedly overshadowed her career and endorsements.
Legal experts suggest that the Supreme Court’s decision will be crucial not only for Jacqueline’s reputation but also for how courts treat cases where celebrities are allegedly linked to high-profile financial scams. If the FIR is quashed, it could provide the actress major relief and clear her path in Bollywood.