Actor Celina Jaitly’s brother, Major (Retd.) Vikrant Kumar Jaitly, a former Indian Army para special forces officer detained in the UAE for over 14 months on alleged national security grounds, has received limited consular access as confirmed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
The Delhi High Court directed the MEA to ensure his legal and medical welfare, appoint a nodal officer to liaise with his family, and facilitate regular communication. Major Jaitly, who served in the Army and UN peacekeeping missions, was detained in Abu Dhabi in September 2024, prompting ongoing diplomatic efforts and court interventions.
”Hon’ble Mr. Justice Sachin Datta issued notice in my petition & directed the Government to file a status report. He also appointed a nodal officer for coordinating all assistance & facilitating contact in the matter of my brother Major (Retd) Vikrant Kumar Jaitly, Veteran Indian Army, Infantry, 3 Para, Special Forces, who has been a victim of an enforced disappearance for 9 months followed by detainment,” wrote Celina in an Instagram post.
“You fought for us, bhai, now it’s time for us to stand behind you,” she continued.
Detention Background and Legal Proceeding
Major Jaitly was arrested under unclear charges and detained without prompt legal due process. His sister Celina Jaitly filed multiple appeals through the Delhi High Court and diplomatic channels, highlighting concerns about enforced disappearance and lack of transparency on his status.
Despite limited consular visits, the MEA has been compelled to increase its involvement following the court’s instructions. The next hearing is set for December 2025, with calls for sustained government intervention and detailed reporting on his situation.
Humanising the Ordeal
Major Jaitly is a decorated soldier with a gallantry commendation, part of a fourth-generation military family. Celina has described the prolonged detention as deeply traumatic, creating uncertainty for the family.
His legal team emphasised the need for humane treatment, medical care, and explicit legal representation. The case also shines a light on the precarious situations faced by Indian nationals detained abroad, underscoring broader diplomatic and human rights challenges.
Who is Celina Jaitly?
Celina Jaitly is an Indian actress, former beauty queen, and humanitarian, born in 1981. She won the Femina Miss India Universe title in 2001 and was the 4th runner-up at Miss Universe the same year. She has featured in popular Hindi films such as No Entry, Golmaal Returns, and Thank You.
Celina comes from a family with a strong military background; her father is a retired Indian Army colonel. Known for her activism, she is a UN Equality Champion and spokesperson for various social causes, including LGBT rights and women’s health.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This prolonged detention underscores the critical need for transparent diplomatic engagement and protective legal frameworks for citizens abroad, especially veterans. The Logical Indian calls for empathetic governance that prioritises human dignity alongside national security. It urges constructive dialogue aimed at accountability and timely crisis resolution.
