Delhi High Court Orders MEA to Appoint Legal Firm for Celina Jaitly’s Brother Detained in UAE
Court Says Legal Representation Must Be Ensured Without Delay
Bollywood Actor’s Plea Leads to Pro Bono Legal Aid in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
By Legal Reporter
New Delhi: February 06, 2026:
In a significant ruling, the Delhi High Court has directed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to issue an official order appointing a legal firm to represent Major (Retd.) Vikrant Kumar Jaitly, brother of Bollywood actor Celina Jaitly, who has been detained in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) since September 2024. The Court emphasized that legal representation is a fundamental right and must be provided promptly to ensure justice.
Background of the Case
- Major (Retd.) Vikrant Jaitly, a decorated Indian Army veteran, has been in detention in the UAE for more than 18 months.
- His sister, actor Celina Jaitly, approached the Delhi High Court seeking intervention to secure legal representation for him.
- The petition was heard by Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav, who directed the MEA to issue an order to Al Maree Partners, a UAE-based law firm.
- The firm has agreed to represent Major Jaitly pro bono (free of cost) in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi courts.
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Court’s Observations
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- Justice Kaurav noted that legal representation cannot be denied to any Indian citizen detained abroad.
- The Court directed the MEA to issue the order without delay and, if there are impediments, to file an affidavit explaining the reasons.
- The next hearing in the matter has been scheduled for February 10, 2026.
- The Court also observed that if Major Jaitly has no objection to the suggested law firm, the MEA must proceed with the appointment.
Key Takeaways
- Legal aid ensured: The Delhi High Court has guaranteed representation for Major Jaitly in UAE courts.
- Pro bono support: The appointed law firm will handle the case free of cost.
- Judicial oversight: The Court has kept the matter under monitoring, with a follow-up hearing scheduled.
- Family’s relief: Celina Jaitly welcomed the ruling as a major step toward securing justice for her brother.
Why This Matters
- For Indian citizens abroad: The ruling reinforces that the Indian judiciary can intervene to protect rights of nationals detained overseas.
- For governance: It highlights the responsibility of the MEA in ensuring legal aid for citizens facing trial abroad.
- For families: The case shows how relatives can seek judicial intervention when diplomatic processes face delays.
Wider Implications
- Diplomatic accountability: The case may set a precedent for MEA’s role in facilitating legal aid for Indians detained abroad.
- Judicial activism: The ruling demonstrates how courts can step in to protect fundamental rights beyond national borders.
- Public awareness: The case has drawn attention to the plight of Indian expatriates facing legal challenges overseas.
Also Read: Delhi High Court Orders MEA to Appoint Legal Firm for Celina Jaitly’s Brother Detained in UAE
Reactions
- Celina Jaitly expressed gratitude to the Court and the MEA, stating: “We will bring back our soldier.”
- Preity Zinta, fellow Bollywood actor, publicly supported Celina and welcomed the ruling as a “significant step forward.”
- Legal experts hailed the judgment as a progressive move ensuring access to justice for Indians abroad.
Conclusion
The Delhi High Court’s directive to the MEA marks a major legal victory for Celina Jaitly’s family and sets an important precedent for protecting the rights of Indian citizens detained abroad. By ensuring pro bono legal representation for Major Vikrant Jaitly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the Court has reinforced the principle that justice must not be denied due to lack of resources or bureaucratic delay. The upcoming hearing on February 10, 2026 will determine the next steps in this closely watched case.
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