The Bombay High Court on Wednesday granted a two-month extension to the interim bail of Naresh Goyal, the founder of Jet Airways, who is embroiled in a money laundering case. This decision allows Goyal to continue receiving medical treatment for his serious health conditions, including cancer.
Justice N J Jamadar, presiding over the case, affirmed the extension, marking the second time Goyal’s bail has been prolonged since his initial grant on May 6. His health issues, detailed in court, include a recent preliminary laparoscopic surgery with the need for further medical procedures.
Goyal’s counsel, Aabad Ponda, emphasized the severity of his client’s health, noting that Goyal is not only battling physical ailments but is also suffering from depression. The combination of these health challenges underscored the necessity for continued medical attention outside the confines of incarceration.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) lawyer, Hiten Venegaonkar, argued that Goyal could receive adequate medical care while hospitalized, suggesting there was no need for bail extension. However, the court opted to prioritize the accused’s health and well-being in its decision.
Goyal’s legal troubles stem from allegations by the ED that he engaged in money laundering and misappropriated funds amounting to Rs 538.62 crore from loans provided to Jet Airways by Canara Bank. These accusations led to his arrest in September 2023.
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Compounding the family’s challenges, Goyal’s wife, Anita Goyal, who was also implicated in the case, passed away on May 16 after facing her own health issues. She had been arrested in November 2023 but was released on bail by a special court on the same day due to her age and medical condition.
