Jet Airways founder, Naresh Goyal, who is an accused in a money laundering case has moved a special court in Mumbai, seeking interim bail for treatment of malignancy. The diagnosis was revealed during tests conducted by private doctors. While the court has passed an initial order for setting a medical board to examine his medical reports, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has sought time to respond to his interim bail plea.
Last month, special judge for cases under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) M G Deshpande had allowed 74-year-old Goyal to undergo medical tests by private doctors.
Naresh Goyal’s Health Condition
In the plea filed on Thursday for interim bail, the Jet Airways founder stated that malignancy was revealed during tests conducted by private doctors. As per his medical records, he has small tumours in his intestine (common location for small tumours), called 'Neuro Endocrine Tumours' (slow growing cancer). He also has a hiatus hernia of about 35 cm to 40 cm with severe reflux esophagitis, a medical condition where the upper part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity.
It is suggested that the stomach will have to be brought down and prevent acid reflux by long-term medication or surgery.
According to PTI, his report also revealed a short segment of narrowing at the junction of the mid and lower oesophagus, which indicated Barrett's oesophagus, a precancerous condition.
Goyal's application stated that his biopsy had been forwarded for histopathological analysis and immunohistochemistry.
According to the application, it is essential for Goyal to undergo a PET scan to determine the stage of malignancy. Based on this information, doctors can decide on the appropriate course of treatment, which may include surgery and chemotherapy. The plea further emphasised that doctors have recommended an aggressive and immediate treatment plan to prevent any potential fatal complications in Goyal's case.
Medical Board At JJ Hospital To Assist ED
During the proceedings, Special Public Prosecutor Sunil Gonsalves proposed the formation of a medical board at JJ Hospital, as instructed by the ED. The board would review Goyal's medical records and provide an opinion to assist the ED in preparing their response with greater clarity. Gonsalves highlighted that the ED lacks expertise to directly interpret the various test results and medical documents attached to Goyal's application.
As per PTI, Goyal's lawyer expressed no objection to the proposal but stressed the urgency of setting up the medical board to avoid any delays that could adversely affect the accused's health.
After considering arguments from both sides, the court requested the dean of JJ Hospital to establish a medical board as per the ED's request. The board would conduct a comprehensive examination of Goyal.
The court mandated that the medical board must provide its impartial opinion to the court by February 20.
Furthermore, the board was instructed to determine the severity of Goyal's condition and assess whether the proposed treatment, based on Goyal's medical records, is available at JJ Hospital.
In September 2023, Goyal was arrested by the ED, according to the agency, he had laundered money and siphoned off loans to the tune of Rs 538.62 crore given to Jet Airways by Canara Bank.
The money laundering case originates from an FIR filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) against Jet Airways, Goyal, his wife Anita, and several former executives of the now-defunct airline. This action is in connection with an alleged bank fraud.