Actor Jacqueline Fernandez is set to face trial in one of India's most talked-about financial crime cases after a Delhi court ordered criminal charges to be framed against her, alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekar, and 15 others.

The court's decision means the case will now move into the trial stage, with all accused directed to appear on 3 June for the formal framing of charges.

What makes the case stand out is how a story once dominated by headlines about luxury gifts and celebrity links is now entering a crucial legal phase.

Additional Sessions Judge Prashant Sharma said investigators had gathered enough material to move forward. 

"Prima facie, there is sufficient material on record based upon which a strong suspicion is raised against all the accused," the judge said.

The 40-year-old had argued that she was an innocent victim and should not be prosecuted under anti-money laundering laws because she was not named in the original extortion case. The court rejected that argument.

According to the ruling, the Cirkus actor's own statements showed regular contact with Chandrashekar and the receipt of expensive gifts and financial benefits. 

The court noted that she was aware of his criminal background.

The wider case centres on allegations that Chandrashekar ran an extortion network from prison, using fake identities and posing as senior government officials.

Investigators say the scheme led to the extortion of more than Rs 200 crore from businesswoman Aditi Singh.

The charges are yet to be tested at trial, where all accused will have the opportunity to defend themselves.