Bollywood actor Jacqueline Fernandez did not appear before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) today for a scheduled questioning session in the ongoing money laundering investigation involving alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar. Official sources confirmed that the 38-year-old Sri Lankan-origin actress cited health issues as the reason for her absence.
The ED has previously interrogated Fernandez multiple times regarding the case, which centers around the alleged defrauding of high-profile individuals, including Aditi Singh, wife of former Fortis Healthcare promoter Shivinder Mohan Singh, to the tune of approximately ₹200 crore. According to the ED, Sukesh Chandrashekhar used the illicitly obtained funds to purchase luxurious gifts for Fernandez.
Sources told the Press Trust of India that new information had emerged in the investigation, prompting the agency to summon the actress for further questioning. However, Fernandez’s legal team, who met with ED officials, conveyed her inability to attend due to health concerns. The agency is expected to issue a new summons soon.
In a charge sheet filed in 2022, the ED alleged that Fernandez had been “enjoying valuables, jewellery, and costly gifts given by Chandrashekhar despite knowing about his criminal antecedents.” The actress, who has maintained her innocence, has consistently claimed she was unaware of Chandrashekhar’s criminal activities.
Fernandez has been questioned at least five times in connection with this case. Her legal representatives continue to assert that she had no involvement or knowledge of the fraudulent schemes orchestrated by Chandrashekhar.
Sources By Agencies
