(Image source from: Instagram.com/jacquelienefernandez)
In a significant turn of events in a money laundering case involving the accused fraudster Sukesh Chandrashekhar, actress Jacqueline Fernandez recently informed a Delhi court that she wishes to become a witness for the prosecution. The court clarified that she needs to submit an official request to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for this. The Patiala House Court on Friday sent a notice to the Enforcement Directorate regarding her request and scheduled a hearing for April 20. According to the usual process, she must approach the investigating agency, which will then document her statement and later decide if they will ask the court to allow her to be a witness. This news follows months after the Supreme Court declined to dismiss the criminal proceedings against Jacqueline in this case. Chandrashekhar, who is currently imprisoned due to various legal issues, has repeatedly claimed that he is in a romantic relationship with the actress. He has shown his affection for her several times by sending letters from prison, especially on special occasions.
Although leaked images indicate they were acquainted, Jacqueline has stated in court that Sukesh tricked her into thinking he was an honest businessman. In September of last year, the Supreme Court declined to hear Jacqueline's appeal against the Delhi High Court's ruling that allowed money laundering proceedings against her to continue, initiated by the Enforcement Directorate. The actress has firmly denied all accusations, insisting she was unaware of Sukesh's criminal past. However, the ED has listed her as a co-defendant in its charges filed in August 2022. In a previous statement obtained by India Today TV, she expressed, "Sukesh toyed with my feelings and made my life unbearable," and added that he "deceived me" and harmed her career and financial situation.
The central investigation agency has claimed that Jacqueline accepted luxurious gifts such as jewelry, clothing, and cars worth over Rs 7 crore from Sukesh, even though she was aware of his involvement in illegal activities.
The ED also alleged that the actress wiped her phone of data after the conman was arrested and initially hid information about her financial transactions with him, only admitting to them after being presented with evidence. This particular case involves a fraudulent scheme worth Rs 215 crore, where Sukesh allegedly deceived prominent people through impersonation and trickery.
