Rajpal Yadav surrenders at Tihar Jail in a long-running cheque bounce case after court rejects plea; Sonu Sood offers support and calls for industry unity.
The legal dispute dates back to 2010 when Yadav took a loan to produce his directorial venture. (Photo: Social Media)
Actor Rajpal Yadav surrendered at Tihar Jail after the Delhi High Court refused to give him more time to arrange funds in a cheque bounce case that has lasted for over a decade. The case, linked to a failed film project, reached a critical stage after repeated legal proceedings and missed payment deadlines.
Before surrendering, Yadav shared an emotional message about his situation. “Sir, kya karoon? Mere paas paise nahin hain. Aur koi upaay nahin dikhta… Sir, yahan hum sab akele hain. There are no friends. I have to deal with this crisis on my own,” he said, highlighting his financial stress and isolation.
The legal dispute dates back to 2010 when Yadav took a loan to produce his directorial venture. The film did not perform well commercially, and repayment issues soon surfaced. Cheques issued toward the loan bounced, leading to criminal proceedings under the Negotiable Instruments Act.
A magistrate’s court convicted Yadav and his wife in 2018 and sentenced them to six months in jail. Over the years, appeals and extensions delayed the sentence. The outstanding amount increased significantly despite partial repayments. In early February 2026, the High Court declined further relief, stating that additional time was no longer justified.
Actor Sonu Sood publicly extended support to Yadav and encouraged the film industry to help him rebuild professionally. Sharing a heartfelt note, Sood described Yadav as an important contributor to cinema.
“Rajpal Yadav is a gifted actor who has given years of unforgettable work to our industry. Sometimes life turns unfair, not because of talent, but because timing can be brutal," he wrote.
Sood added that Yadav would feature in one of his upcoming projects and urged filmmakers to offer work opportunities. “He will be part of my film, and I believe this is the moment for all of us…producers, directors, colleagues to stand together.
"A small signing amount, adjustable against future work, is not charity, it’s dignity. When one of our own is going through a tough phase, the industry must remind him he’s not alone. This is how we show we are more than just an industry,” he wrote towards the end.
Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma rejected Yadav’s final plea for a one-week extension to arrange funds. Following the order, the actor surrendered around 4 pm to begin serving his sentence. Authorities confirmed that previously deposited funds had been transferred to the complainant company.
The development has sparked debate about financial struggles within the film industry and the legal consequences of prolonged disputes. While the court emphasised compliance with legal obligations, industry figures have focused on offering professional support during Yadav’s difficult phase.
