A special court ruling on Thursday stated that the cancer diagnosed in Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal is in its initial stages and does not pose an immediate threat to his life. Despite this, the court declined to grant him interim bail based on medical reasons.

Despite Mr. Goyal's incarceration in connection with a money laundering case, the court has allowed him to pursue cancer treatment at a hospital of his preference for a duration of two months. Mr. Goyal, aged 74 and currently held at Arthur Road jail in central Mumbai, had petitioned for interim bail to address his cancer diagnosis.

Special Judge M G Deshpande, presiding over cases under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), highlighted that, according to medical reports regarding Mr. Goyal's condition, the cancer is in its early stages and does not pose an immediate threat to his life. The judge emphasized the likelihood of a successful recovery, indicating a strong prospect for Mr. Goyal's health improvement.

"Currently, neither the private doctors nor the medical board has asserted that this sickness is life threatening. Moreover, the health condition of accused (Goyal) has not exhibited any alarming symptoms," the order said.

The court further emphasized that with prompt and appropriate treatment, there exists a strong possibility of a positive recovery and complete elimination of the tumor. However, it noted that Mr. Goyal faces allegations of serious money laundering amounting to over ₹500 crore. Considering his influential status, the court expressed concerns that granting bail could potentially jeopardize the integrity of the ongoing case.

The judge clarified that the decision to deny interim bail was not a denial of medical assistance to Mr. Goyal. Instead, it was a precautionary measure aimed at preventing potential misuse of the investigation process.

"Prima facie, it appears that the malignancy is at a preliminary stage and has not spread to the entire body yet," the court said.

It added that while Tata Hospital was considered to be one of the best for cancer treatments, it was up to Mr Goyal to choose a hospital for his treatment.

"The court cannot interfere in the wish and desire of the applicant (Goyal). I am of the opinion that the applicant needs hospitalisation for further investigation and treatment," the court said in its order.