Lalit Modi Faces New Legal Challenges as Vanuatu Revokes His Passport

Lalit Modi’s passport has been revoked by Vanuatu following concerns about his intentions to evade legal proceedings. Modi, who is facing serious charges in India, has requested to surrender his Indian passport, prompting review by Indian authorities. The revocation and legal challenges may hinder his ability to avoid extradition as India seeks to prosecute him.

Lalit Modi is currently facing significant challenges as Vanuatu has revoked his passport amidst controversies related to Interpol. Vanuatu’s Prime Minister, Napat, emphasized that citizenship is a privilege requiring valid reasons, which do not include attempts to evade legal actions. He clarified, “None of those legitimate reasons include attempting to avoid extradition, which the recent facts brought to light clearly indicate was Lalit Modi’s intention.”

Modi has submitted a request to relinquish his Indian passport at the Indian High Commission in London after acquiring Vanuatu citizenship. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that they will review his request in accordance with existing regulations. An MEA spokesperson stated, “We continue to pursue the case against him as required under law.”

As the former chairman of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Lalit Modi faces ongoing legal challenges in India relating to alleged financial misconduct. Indian authorities have been attempting to secure his extradition from the UK, but their efforts to issue an Interpol Red Notice were thwarted owing to insufficient judicial evidence. The revocation of Modi’s passport by Vanuatu could complicate his position further, as it reduces his potential safe havens. The implications of this situation on India’s extradition efforts remain uncertain.

In summary, Lalit Modi’s citizenship in Vanuatu has been revoked, which poses further complications for him as he faces ongoing legal issues in India. His attempts to surrender his Indian passport are under review by Indian authorities, who remain committed to pursuing his legal matters. The lack of an Interpol Red Notice and his diminishing safe havens may intensify his legal battles moving forward.

Original Source: m.economictimes.com