Court refuses bail to Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal on health grounds

Naresh Goyal arrested by Enforcement Directorate in September 2023 (File)

Mumbai:

A special court here on Wednesday denied bail to Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal in a money laundering case on health grounds.

The court said the 74-year-old businessman, who was diagnosed with cancer, received better care at the “hospital” where he was admitted.

Mr Goyal has been undergoing treatment at the private Sir HN Reliance Hospital for the past two months.

The court in February refused interim bail to Mr Goyal but allowed him to receive treatment at a hospital of his choice.

On Wednesday, Special Judge MG Deshpande, who was hearing the case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), rejected his bail plea.

Detailed orders have not yet been announced.

Mr. Goyal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in September 2023 on charges of misappropriating a loan of Rs 5,386.2 crore provided by Canara Bank to his airline (now grounded) Jet Airways and money laundering proceedings.

The businessman said in his bail application that he developed a fever after being admitted to hospital and underwent a cystoscopy (used to diagnose, monitor and treat diseases affecting the bladder and urethra).

“After suffering so many illnesses, Naresh Goyal became very weak, his immunity was weakened and his health condition became fragile,” the application said.

He is said to suffer from a number of life-threatening illnesses and also suffers from severe mental health issues.

The emergency room objected to his request, arguing that his medical report did not mention that Goyal’s illness was life-threatening, “which clearly means that although the disease is chronic, it cannot be considered incurable if appropriate treatment is provided.” of”.

The court has allowed him to receive treatment at a hospital of his choice and the current application seeks to postpone the trial proceedings, the central investigation agency said.

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