Jacqueline Fernandez has withdrawn her request to become a government witness in the ongoing money laundering investigation tied to alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar. The decision came after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) forcefully opposed her bid, presenting arguments that she was not an "unwitting victim" but rather an "active participant" and a significant beneficiary of the illicit funds.
The ED argued that Fernandez maintained contact with Chandrashekhar even after knowing his criminal past, suggesting a deliberate involvement rather than an accidental entanglement.
The agency detailed that Fernandez allegedly received luxury gifts valued at approximately Rs 7 crore from Chandrashekhar, obtained through the proceeds of his alleged Rs 200 crore extortion racket. The ED further claims she "used and enjoyed" these proceeds for herself and her family, demonstrating a "conscious disregard for the source of funds."
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ED's Stance: More Than a Bystander
The Enforcement Directorate's opposition to Fernandez's plea was based on several key points presented to the court:
Sustained Contact: Fernandez reportedly remained in "regular and sustained contact" with Chandrashekhar even after being aware of his criminal history.
Beneficiary Status: The agency alleges she was a "significant beneficiary" of the proceeds of crime, receiving luxury gifts and articles arranged by Chandrashekhar.
Knowledge of Illicit Funds: The ED asserts that Fernandez knowingly benefited from funds derived from money laundering activities.
Active Participation: The agency views her involvement as extending beyond a minor role, characterizing her as an "active participant" in the laundering process.
Undermining Justice: Allowing her to become an approver, the ED contended, would constitute a "miscarriage of justice" and diminish the seriousness of the alleged offence.
Case Background and Fernandez's Position
The case centres around allegations that Sukesh Chandrashekhar duped spouses of former Ranbaxy promoters, Shivinder Singh and Malvinder Singh, of Rs 200 crore. Fernandez had sought approver status in this matter, which involves her alleged receipt of luxury gifts and benefits from Chandrashekhar. She had previously maintained that she played no role in laundering Chandrashekhar’s alleged illegal wealth.
Fernandez's counsel confirmed the withdrawal of her plea before Special Judge Prashant Sharma. The actor had previously appeared before the ED multiple times, recording her statements under Section 50 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, asserting her cooperation with the investigators.
