New Delhi — Popular Bollywood comedian Rajpal Yadav surrendered to Tihar Jail on February 4 after the Delhi High Court rejected his plea for more time to repay nearly ₹9 crore owed in a long-running cheque bounce case. The matter stems from a financial dispute dating back to 2010 related to his directorial debut Ata Pata Laapata.
In the latest development, the Delhi High Court on Thursday adjourned the hearing on Rajpal Yadav’s bail plea to February 16, directing the complainant—Murali Projects Pvt Ltd—to file a response.
Rajpal Yadav had borrowed ₹5 crore from Murali Projects Pvt Ltd to fund his 2012 directorial film Ata Pata Laapata. The film was a commercial failure, and the repayment cheques issued by Yadav bounced. The legal battle that followed stretched over a decade.
Despite multiple opportunities granted by the courts to settle the dues in instalments, Yadav failed to honour the commitments. In February 2026, the Delhi High Court upheld his conviction in the cheque bounce case, leading to his surrender and imprisonment in Tihar Jail.
News of Rajpal’s incarceration has stirred emotional reactions in the film industry. Several celebrities have reached out to offer financial help or job opportunities. Prominent names such as Salman Khan, Ajay Devgn, Varun Dhawan, Mika Singh, and Sonu Sood have reportedly expressed willingness to assist Yadav in clearing the debt.
Speaking to PTI, Yadav’s wife Radha said,
“Everybody has stood by him. The industry has been supportive, a big thank you to everyone who is coming out to help.”
Insiders say several celebrities are closely monitoring the case and are in touch with his team and family to explore legal and financial options for securing his release.
With the Delhi High Court adjourning the bail plea to February 16 and seeking a response from the complainant, there is hope that the actor may be released soon, especially with active intervention and support from the film industry. However, the final decision will hinge on the court’s assessment and whether a settlement appears feasible.
