The saga of retired Indian Army Major Vikrant Kumar Jaitly, brother of actress Celina Jaitly, continues to unfold with fresh hurdles in his UAE detention case. Detained for more than 12 months, his plight has become a focal point of India-UAE diplomatic dialogue.
Tuesday’s Delhi High Court session brought troubling news from the Foreign Ministry: UAE authorities blocked a planned consular visit on February 13. The Indian mission in Abu Dhabi had submitted all necessary paperwork, yet permission was not granted.
MEA counsel assured the bench that arrangements for a follow-up meeting are underway, requesting a four-week extension. Justice is set to reconvene on March 16, keeping the family in suspense.
The court turned down a bid for closed-door hearings proposed by Vikrant’s spouse, prioritizing public scrutiny to foster responsible governmental action. Clear instructions followed: ensure prompt legal support and consular rights for the detainee.
Flashback to last year: Celina’s courtroom appeal accused UAE of unlawful confinement starting in 2024. Having made Dubai home since 2016, Vikrant contributed to Matity Group’s operations in trade, consulting, and risk strategies.
Her petition painted a picture of desperation, urging swift intervention for his repatriation. This ongoing battle not only tests familial bonds but also bilateral relations, as India pushes for consular norms observance.
With time ticking, stakeholders eye the MEA’s next moves. Will four weeks yield access and progress? The resolution could set precedents for future expatriate crises, blending law, diplomacy, and celebrity influence in a high-stakes narrative.