Rajpal Yadav says ‘no friends, have to deal alone’ as he surrenders at Tihar Jail

Actor Rajpal Yadav surrendered at Delhi’s Tihar Jail on Thursday following a court order in a cheque bounce case involving ₹2.5 crore. The Delhi High Court had rejected his final plea seeking more time to arrange funds, ending a long-standing legal dispute tied to his 2010 directorial venture Ata Pata Laapata.

Before surrendering, Yadav made an emotional appeal, reportedly breaking down as he said, “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.” The actor expressed feeling isolated amid his ongoing financial and legal troubles.

The case traces back to 2010 when Yadav borrowed ₹5 crore from Murali Projects Pvt Ltd to finance Ata Pata Laapata. The film’s box office failure led to financial strain, resulting in bounced cheques and legal action under the Negotiable Instruments Act. In April 2018, a Magistrate’s Court convicted Yadav and his wife under Section 138 of the Act and sentenced them to six months in prison.

Over the years, Yadav repaid part of the debt, including ₹75 lakh in 2025, but repeated delays in settling dues prompted the court to question his seriousness. The total outstanding reportedly rose to nearly ₹9 crore. On February 4, 2026, Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma denied his final extension request, emphasizing that repeated leniency cannot be granted irrespective of public stature.

Yadav surrendered to authorities following the court’s directive and is now in Tihar Jail under supervision. The case highlights the prolonged legal and financial challenges faced by the actor, who continues to navigate the consequences of the failed film venture.