“Major (Retd.) Vikrant Kumar Jaitly: Former Indian Army Officer Detained in UAE, Sister Celina Jaitly Appeals for Help”

New Delhi – Celina Jaitly’s brother, Vikrant Kumar Jaitly, a retired Major of the Indian Army, has been reportedly detained in the United Arab Emirates since September 2024, prompting the actress to move the Delhi High Court for intervention to secure his legal and medical assistance.

Background & Allegations

Vikrant Kumar Jaitly had been living in the UAE since 2016, working with a company engaged in consultancy, trading and risk-management services. According to the petition filed by Celina, her brother was “illegally abducted and detained” in Abu Dhabi in September 2024 under an alleged national-security related case.

Despite repeated approaches via the Indian Embassy, the MEA and through the MADAD portal, the family claims they have had minimal access or verified information about his condition or legal status.

Court Intervention & Government Response

During the hearing, the Delhi High Court directed that a nodal officer be appointed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to coordinate the case, facilitate communication between the family and Jaitly, and ensure legal representation is made available for him in the UAE. The court also issued notice to the Indian government, seeking a status report within four weeks.

In court, the government’s counsel acknowledged that Jaitly had been arrested in connection with “a case” in the UAE and that consular access had been granted. However, the family disputes that meaningful contact has been allowed.

Family’s Appeal & Emotional Response

After the hearing, Celina Jaitly posted an emotional message on social media calling the court’s order a “ray of hope after 14 months of darkness.” She praised her brother’s service – a son, grandson and great-grandson of war veterans – and asked for the government’s support in bringing him back safely.

Her petition underscores that she is his only immediate blood relative, and she is seeking urgent legal, medical and humanitarian intervention in his favors.

What’s Still Unclear & Key Issues

• The specific charges or legal case lodged against Jaitly in the UAE have not been publicly detailed.
• The family alleges only limited consular visits (just four between May and September 2025) despite more than a year of detention.
• The condition of his health and well-being while in detention remains a concern per his sister’s petition.

Why This Matters

This case raises wider issues of Indian citizens detained abroad, the extent of consular protection and the responsiveness of diplomatic channels when a former army officer is involved. It also garners attention because it intersects with Bollywood and national service narratives.

What Happens Next?

The matter has been listed for the next hearing in December. The court expects the MEA and other concerned authorities to submit a detailed status report, and to enable direct communication between Jaitly and his sister/family. Until then, the family is awaiting clarity on his legal standing and welfare.