Background of the Case
The Rajpal Naurang Yadav has found himself in serious legal trouble after the Delhi High Court refused to recall its earlier order directing him to surrender in connection with multiple cheque dishonour cases. The actor stands convicted and has been sentenced to six months of imprisonment for failing to honour settlement commitments made to the complainant, M/s Murli Projects Pvt. Ltd.
Court’s Direction to Surrender
On Thursday, Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma categorically directed Yadav to surrender before the Jail Superintendent, Tihar Jail, by 4 PM. The Court declined to grant any further extension or relief, noting that repeated leniency had already been shown to the actor.
The judge emphasized that courts cannot create special circumstances merely because an individual belongs to a particular industry or background, underscoring that equality before law remains paramount.
Observations on Equality and Justice
In strong remarks, the Court stated:
“A Court of law looks through only from the prism of equality as per law… Leniency, though sometimes necessary, cannot be extended endlessly, especially when it is met with continued non-compliance.”
Justice Sharma highlighted the need to balance compassion with discipline, adding that the plight of the complainant cannot be overlooked when a convicted individual repeatedly fails to comply with court directions.
Repeated Breach of Undertakings
Earlier, on February 2, the High Court had strongly criticized Yadav for repeatedly breaching undertakings related to payment of settlement amounts. Despite several opportunities and judicial leniency, the actor failed to honour his commitments, prompting the Court to observe that his conduct “deserves to be deprecated.”
Actor’s Plea for More Time
During Thursday’s hearing, Yadav appeared with his counsel, who argued that the actor could not surrender earlier as he was attempting to arrange funds to repay the complainant. It was submitted that Yadav reached Delhi only at 5 PM, missing the surrender deadline, and requested the Court to treat the application as a mercy plea.
Court’s Strong Disapproval
The High Court firmly rejected this plea, recording its strong disapproval of the actor’s conduct. Justice Sharma remarked that nothing prevented Yadav from complying with the judicial order and that such behaviour reflected scant respect for the law.
The Court further observed:
“The law rewards its compliance, not its contempt… Extending continuous leniency would send a message that court directions can be disregarded repeatedly without consequences.”
Next Date of Hearing
Refusing to recall its surrender order, the Court held that the petitioner’s conduct did not merit any further indulgence. The matter has now been listed for compliance on February 7, making it clear that continued non-compliance will not be tolerated.
Case Title
SH. RAJPAL NAURANG YADAV & ANR v. M/S. MURLI PROJECTS PVT. LTD & ANR
