NEW DELHI (February 23, 2026) — The Supreme Court on Monday directed the Delhi High Court to pass an order on the bail application of Leena Paulose, the wife of alleged conman Sukesh Chandrasekhar, within a three-week period. Paulose is a co-accused in the 200 crore rupee extortion case involving the wives of former Ranbaxy promoters. A bench comprising Justices MM Sundresh and N Kotiswar Singh issued the directive after noting that her bail petition has remained pending before the High Court for over a year.
Judicial Intervention Over Prolonged Delay
The apex court’s order follows a petition filed by Paulose seeking the “expeditious hearing” of her bail application. During the proceedings, counsel for the petitioner submitted that despite regular listings, the matter had not reached a conclusion in the High Court.
While the Supreme Court had previously expressed reservations about litigants approaching the top court to “arrange the board” of High Courts, the bench acknowledged the significant duration of the pendency in this instance. The directive aims to ensure a timely judicial decision on Paulose’s custody status, which has continued since her arrest in September 2021.
Background of the Extortion Case
The case originates from an investigation by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Delhi Police. Authorities allege that Sukesh Chandrasekhar, while lodged in Rohini Jail, operated an organised crime syndicate to extort 200 crore rupees from Aditi Singh and Japna Singh, the spouses of Malvinder and Shivinder Singh.
Key allegations against Leena Paulose include:
- Syndicate Facilitation: The prosecution contends that Paulose was not merely an abettor but an active member of the syndicate, helping to manage and park the proceeds of crime.
- Financial Irregularities: Investigators allege the couple utilised hawala routes and shell companies to move funds. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) previously seized 16 luxury vehicles from Paulose’s Chennai residence, which were prima facie linked to the extortion money.
- MCOCA Charges: Due to the organised nature of the alleged crimes, the police invoked the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA), which carries a higher threshold for the granting of bail.
Concurrent Legal Proceedings
In July 2023, the Delhi High Court had previously rejected a bail plea from Paulose, citing the “sensitive nature” of the case and the rigorous requirements of Section 21(4) of MCOCA. The current proceedings relate to a fresh application for bail. Both Paulose and Chandrasekhar remain in judicial custody as they face multiple trials across various jurisdictions, including money laundering charges brought by the Enforcement Directorate.
Sources
- Verdictum News Desk: “Supreme Court Asks Delhi HC To Decide Bail Plea Of Sukesh Chandrashekhar’s Wife Within Three Weeks” (February 23, 2026)
- The Times of India: “Rs 200 crore extortion case: SC asks Delhi HC to decide bail plea of conman Sukesh Chandrasekhar’s wife” (February 23, 2026)
- The Hindu: “Supreme Court raps Sukesh Chandrasekhar’s wife plea seeking expeditious hearing” (September 3, 2025)
- SCC Online: “Delhi High Court refuses bail to Leena Paulose in 214 crore extortion case” (July 13, 2023)
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