The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has asserted in the Delhi High Court that Bollywood actor Jacqueline Fernandez, embroiled in a Rs 200 crore money laundering case, knowingly engaged in the possession and use of proceeds of crime linked to alleged conman Sukesh Chandrasekhar. The ED's claims were made in response to Fernandez's plea seeking the cancellation of an FIR against her in the money laundering case. The ED alleged that evidence indicated Fernandez had been in possession of the proceeds of crime and tampered with evidence by wiping data from her phone after Chandrasekhar's arrest. The matter is scheduled for the next hearing on April 15.
In its response, the ED contended that Jacqueline Fernandez had withheld the truth and concealed facts about financial transactions with Sukesh Chandrasekhar until confronted with evidence. The agency claimed that she was knowingly involved in the possession and use of the proceeds of crime. According to the ED, the actor attempted to cover up her conduct by portraying herself as a victim of Chandrasekhar, but failed to provide substantial evidence to support her claim. The ED asserted that Fernandez was aware of the conman's criminal intentions but continued to receive and possess proceeds of crime for herself and her family.
The ED further alleged that Jacqueline Fernandez, despite being aware of Chandrasekhar's criminal antecedents and marital status, continued to have a relationship with him. The agency claimed that she received financial benefits from Chandrasekhar, which amounted to proceeds of crime.
Fernandez's plea maintains her innocence, stating that there is no indication of her involvement in aiding Chandrasekhar's activities. She argued that the ED acted in a biased manner and cited the agency's decision to clear another Bollywood actor, Nora Fatehi, despite acknowledging gifts received from Chandrasekhar.
Jacqueline Fernandez has cooperated with the ED in the money laundering investigation against Sukesh Chandrasekhar and others. The case originated from an FIR filed by the Delhi Police against Chandrasekhar for allegedly duping the spouses of former Ranbaxy promoters of Rs 200 crore.
The ED registered a money laundering case, and the Delhi Police claimed that Chandrasekhar used hawala routes and shell companies to park the illicitly earned money.