Bollywood actress Celina Jaitly has received significant relief in her long-running legal struggle for her brother, Retired Major Vikrant Jaitly, who has been in UAE custody since September 2024. In a key development, the Delhi High Court has directed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to facilitate legal assistance and ensure the safety of the former Indian Army officer.
The order comes after nearly 16 months of detention, during which Celina repeatedly raised concerns about lack of communication and legal access for her brother. The latest court intervention marks a turning point in the Celina Jaitly brother UAE custody case, which has drawn attention to the challenges faced by Indian citizens detained abroad.
Delhi High Court Steps In for Legal and Diplomatic Support
During a hearing held on Tuesday, the Delhi High Court instructed the Ministry of External Affairs to urgently coordinate legal support for Major Vikrant Jaitly and ensure his well-being while in UAE custody. The court emphasised the need for structured diplomatic and legal intervention, especially given the prolonged detention.
Celina Jaitly confirmed the development through a post on her official social media account, calling it a “big step to protect the rights of a soldier.” She shared that, after months of effort, legal arrangements for her brother have finally been put in place.
UAE Law Firm Appointed to Handle the Case
Following the court’s directive, a prominent UAE-based legal firm, Khalid Almarri & Partners Advocates, has been engaged to represent Major Vikrant Jaitly. Notably, the firm has agreed to handle the case pro bono, working to protect his rights under international law.
Legal experts say this move is crucial, as cases involving national security laws in foreign jurisdictions often require local legal expertise and diplomatic coordination.
Celina Jaitly Thanks MEA for Support
Expressing gratitude, Celina Jaitly publicly thanked the Ministry of External Affairs for its cooperation. She stated that she is confident her brother will return home safely, highlighting his years of service to the nation.
Her statements have resonated widely, sparking conversations around the legal protections available to Indian citizens detained overseas.
Background: 16 Months of Detention in UAE
Major Vikrant Jaitly retired from the Indian Army and had been living in Dubai since 2016. In September 2024, he was taken into custody by UAE security agencies in connection with a national security-related case. Since then, his family claims there has been little to no direct communication.
Unable to intervene legally from India, Celina eventually approached the Delhi High Court, seeking MEA assistance after exhausting all other options.
Why This Case Matters Now
The Celina Jaitly brother UAE custody case highlights the importance of diplomatic channels, legal access, and consular support for Indians abroad. As global mobility increases, such cases underline the role of the government in safeguarding citizens’ rights beyond national borders.
With legal help now in place, the coming weeks are expected to be critical in determining the next steps in the case.
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