Supreme Court Cancels Bail of Gangster Chhota Rajan in 2001 Jaya Shetty Murder Case

The Supreme Court of India has delivered a landmark ruling by cancelling the bail granted to gangster Chhota Rajan in connection with the 2001 Jaya Shetty murder case, sparking nationwide attention. The apex court not only overturned the bail but also raised sharp questions on why his sentence was suspended in the first place, considering his criminal history, multiple convictions, and long period of absconding.

Background of the Case

In 2001, Mumbai-based hotelier Jaya Shetty, owner of the Golden Crown Hotel, was gunned down by members of Chhota Rajan’s gang. Investigations revealed that the underworld don had orchestrated the murder, making it part of a long list of violent crimes attributed to him.

For decades, Chhota Rajan operated as one of the most feared underworld figures, formerly linked to Dawood Ibrahim before splitting from his syndicate. After years of evading law enforcement, Rajan was arrested in 2015 in Bali, Indonesia, and extradited to India. Since then, he has faced several cases ranging from murder, extortion, and organized crime activities under the MCOCA (Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act).

Why Was Bail Cancelled?

The Supreme Court bench, while hearing the CBI’s appeal, noted critical points:

• Multiple Convictions: Chhota Rajan has already been convicted in at least four cases, including serious offences of murder and extortion.

• Absconding for 27 Years: The court highlighted that Rajan was on the run for nearly three decades before his arrest in 2015, undermining trust in his compliance with bail conditions.

• Public Safety Concerns: The justices questioned, “Why suspend the sentence of such a man?” emphasizing the risk his release could pose to society.

• Legal Precedent: The judgment sets a clear precedent that notorious criminals with repeated convictions and flight history cannot be granted leniency in sentencing.

Timeline of Key Developments

• 2001 – Hotelier Jaya Shetty murdered in Mumbai; Chhota Rajan named as mastermind.

• 2015 – Chhota Rajan arrested in Bali and extradited to India.

• 2017-2018 – Multiple convictions against him, including in the Jyotirmoy Dey murder case (a senior journalist killed in Mumbai).

• 2022 – Rajan was granted bail in the Jaya Shetty murder case by a lower court.

• September 2025 – The Supreme Court cancelled his bail, siding with the CBI’s appeal and ordering him to remain in custody.

Reaction from Media & Legal Circles

The verdict has received widespread coverage:

• Times of India reported that the SC specifically asked why his sentence was suspended despite his criminal history.

• The Hindu highlighted that the ruling reinforced the principle of accountability for convicts with multiple cases.

• NDTV noted that the cancellation of bail was linked directly to the gravity of his crimes.

• The Indian Express pointed out his 27 years of abscondence and ongoing threat to public order.

• Hindustan Times and News18 framed the decision as a “big setback” for the gangster.

What This Means for Chhota Rajan

With the bail cancelled, Chhota Rajan will remain behind bars to serve his ongoing sentences. The verdict further diminishes any possibility of leniency or early release. Legal experts believe this order strengthens the state’s stand against organized crime and underscores the judiciary’s stance of not extending undue sympathy to habitual offenders.

Broader Implications

This ruling is not just about one case – it sends a powerful message:

• Accountability of Underworld Figures: India’s legal system is committed to curbing organized crime.

• Judicial Precedent: Courts may now be more cautious in granting bail to criminals with a record of absconding.

• Public Trust in Judiciary: The cancellation reassures citizens that justice is not compromised for influential or notorious figures.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s decision to cancel Chhota Rajan’s bail in the 2001 Jaya Shetty murder case marks a significant victory for justice and law enforcement. It reaffirms the principle that criminals with repeated convictions, deep underworld links, and histories of absconding cannot seek refuge in procedural leniency. For India, this verdict not only closes a crucial chapter in Rajan’s criminal saga but also strengthens the resolve to fight organized crime with an iron hand.