A Chandigarh court has rejected the interim bail petition of Lalit Kumar Mahendru, also known as Lalli, who is accused in a fraud case involving Rs 27.04 crore. The ruling was delivered on November 11, 2026. The case is linked to alleged fraud involving the National Highways Authority of India and a government account.

Defense grounds and prosecution arguments

The defense argued in court that the accused had been in jail since October 1, 2025, and that the investigation into the matter was complete. The accused had sought interim regular bail on the grounds of his wife's surgery and subsequent care.

The public prosecutor strongly opposed the bail petition. The prosecution argued that two other cases are also registered against the accused. Additionally, apprehensions were raised in court that the accused might abscond or influence the trial if granted bail.

The court cited the gravity of the crime and the large amount involved in the fraud as the primary grounds for rejecting Lalit Kumar Mahendru's request for interim bail.