Naresh Goyal of Jet Airways Says It’s Better to Die in Jail, Tells Special Court

The Enforcement Directorate arrested Goyal in September 2023 for his alleged involvement in a bank fraud of Rs 538 crore. Currently, he is in jail in Mumbai.

During the court hearing, Goyal, with folded hands and trembling, explained his bad health. He mentioned that his wife Anita is sick, battling advanced-stage cancer, and their daughter is also unwell. Goyal claimed that he couldn’t even fold his legs due to pain and swelling in his knees.

The court noted Goyal’s physical condition and his plea not to be sent to the hospital. Goyal insisted on staying in jail, expressing difficulty in traveling for medical care.

Goyal stated that he has ‘lost every hope of life’ and prefers to ‘die’ rather than continue in such a situation. He pointed out challenges in reaching the doctor on time and the long queues at the hospital.

The judge assured Goyal that his health would be taken care of, and the court directed his lawyers to address his health concerns. Goyal’s bail application, filed in December, is pending, with the next hearing scheduled for January 16. The case against Goyal, his wife, and some former Jet Airways executives involves a Rs 538 crore fraud at Canara Bank based on a CBI FIR.