In a landmark decision, a Belgian court has approved the extradition of fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi to India, marking a major victory for Indian authorities. Choksi, accused in the ₹13,000 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam, has been evading justice since fleeing India in 2018.
The Belgium Court’s Decision
The Belgian court dismissed Choksi’s claims of political persecution and safety concerns, clearing the path for his extradition. This ruling is a significant triumph for India’s efforts to combat financial fraud and bring high-profile fugitives to justice.
Choksi, who had been residing in Antigua and Barbuda, was arrested in Dominica in 2021 while attempting to flee to Cuba. He was later moved to Belgium, where he contested his extradition. The court’s decision paves the way for his return to India, where he faces charges of money laundering, fraud, and criminal conspiracy.
The PNB Scam: A Quick Recap
The PNB scam, uncovered in 2018, involved Mehul Choksi and his nephew Nirav Modi allegedly using fake Letters of Undertaking (LoUs) to secure loans worth ₹13,000 crore. These LoUs were issued without proper collateral by rogue bank officials, leading to massive financial losses for PNB.
The scam exposed severe lapses in India’s banking oversight and governance. Both Choksi and Modi fled the country before the fraud was discovered, leaving behind a trail of financial devastation.
Choksi’s Legal Battle
Since fleeing India, Choksi has employed various legal strategies to avoid extradition. He acquired citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda in 2017 through their Citizenship by Investment program. Choksi has argued that his Indian citizenship was revoked unfairly and that he risks mistreatment if extradited.
Indian authorities have consistently rejected these claims, assuring that Choksi will receive a fair trial. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have been working diligently to build a robust case against him.
What’s Next?
With the Belgian court’s green light, Indian officials will now collaborate with Belgian authorities to expedite Choksi’s extradition. Once in India, he will face trial in a special court handling PNB scam-related cases.
Choksi’s extradition would mark a significant milestone in India’s fight against financial fraud and corruption, sending a strong message to other fugitives that justice will prevail.
A Triumph for Justice
The Belgian court’s ruling highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing cross-border crimes and holding individuals accountable. For the victims of the PNB scam and the Indian public, Choksi’s extradition represents a step towards justice and closure.
As the case progresses, the legal proceedings and eventual outcome will remain under close scrutiny. For now, India celebrates this hard-earned victory, reaffirming its commitment to the rule of law and financial integrity.
Stay updated with NextMinuteNews for the latest developments on this case.
