Sheetal Mafatlal granted bail

Mafatlal had allegedly tried to exit the airport through the green channel,normally meant for people without any dutiable asset,and was arrested with gold jewellery worth Rs 53,67,508.

Mafatlal’s lawyer Satish Maneshinde argued that the Customs had searched her house in Mumbai and had not found anything incriminating. He also pointed out that no other persons need to be interrogated in the case. Mafatlal was remanded in judicial custody for seven days on Monday,after which her lawyer had moved the bail application.

Maneshinde told the court that though Mafatlal was a non-resident Indian,she frequented India. He also argued that she was not a trader in diamonds and the jewellery was meant for her personal use.

The prosecution,on the other hand,told the court that since there was no clarity on why Mafatlal was carrying such expensive ornaments,the possibility of her being involved in smuggling could not be ruled out. Senior public prosecutor Arun Gupte said all the ornaments seized from her were brand new.

Husband Atulya Mafatlal,who stood by Sheetal through the court proceedings,said,“My wife is innocent and was completely unaware that she had flouted a law. We are relieved that she is released.”

Rubbishing allegations of family rivalry,he said,“I am unaware what led to her arrest; I have no clue who is behind her arrest. These are all situational developments and I don’t want to name any one.”