The Supreme Court on Thursday extended the deadline for celebrated comedian and character actor Rajpal Yadav to deposit ₹2 crore into the court registry, observing that the actor had been indulging in "drama" by repeatedly seeking adjournments without making substantive progress toward compliance.
A bench comprising Justices [name withheld pending verification] directed Yadav to complete the deposit within a strict timeline, cautioning that any further procrastination would be viewed seriously and could result in enforcement action, including attachment of properties or other coercive steps.
The order arises from an ongoing case in which Yadav was called upon to deposit the amount as part of proceedings involving civil or quasi-criminal obligations. Sources close to the matter indicated that the actor had previously missed several deadlines despite being granted multiple extensions over the past months. His legal team had cited health issues and procedural complications as reasons for the delays.
Rajpal Yadav, widely known for his roles in films such as "Hera Pheri," "Welcome," and "Garam Masala," has been associated with this matter since the case was initially listed before the court. Despite his busy filming schedule, the court observed that the actor could have arranged for the deposit through financial planning or by liquidating assets, and there was no justifiable reason for continued postponement.
The judge remarked during the hearing that while the court sympathizes with individuals facing genuine hardship, the legal process cannot be treated as a theatre where deadlines are flexible and commitments can be deferred indefinitely. The remark — captured in court records — echoed the public perception that Yadav was stringing along the proceedings without taking concrete steps.
Legal experts said the court's firm stance sends a clear message to all litigants that contempt of court directives carries serious consequences. If Yadav fails to comply with the new deadline, the court may initiate proceedings under the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971, which can lead to imprisonment for up to six months or a fine.
Yadav's counsel reportedly informed the court that they are working on arrangements to fulfill the deposit but requested additional time to finalize documentation. The court, however, declined to grant any further relief and fixed the next date of hearing specifically for compliance verification.
