Vanuatu Cancels Lalit Modi’s Passport Amid Ongoing Legal Issues

Vanuatu’s Prime Minister has cancelled Lalit Modi’s passport due to legal issues he faces in India, where he is accused of financial misconduct. Modi applied to surrender his Indian passport after reportedly acquiring Vanuatu citizenship through an investment programme, which allows for quick citizenship without residency requirements and contributes significantly to the nation’s revenue.

Jotham Napat, the Prime Minister of Vanuatu, has instructed the Citizenship Commission to revoke the passport of Lalit Modi, a businessman facing legal complications. This action follows Modi’s recent application to surrender his Indian passport at the Indian High Commission in London. Reports indicate that he gained Vanuatu citizenship through its citizenship by investment programme, a process that facilitates quick access to a passport within 30 to 60 days.

Lalit Modi, the founder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and former vice-president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), is entangled in serious legal issues. He is accused of multiple offenses, including bid-rigging, money laundering, and violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act of 1999. Since leaving India in 2010, he has been evading legal repercussions tied to financial misconduct.

The citizenship by investment programme in Vanuatu permits applicants to obtain a passport without residing in the country, which is appealing to many investors. The cost for this programme ranges from approximately $135,500 to $155,500, significantly contributing to the nation’s economy, as it represents about 30 percent of Vanuatu’s national revenue. This programme has attracted various individuals seeking legal residency and citizenship in the Pacific island nation.

The cancellation of Lalit Modi’s Vanuatu passport underscores the ongoing legal challenges he faces. With accusations of serious financial crimes and a questionable attempt to secure foreign citizenship, Modi’s situation highlights the complexities of international law and the implications of citizenship by investment programmes. Vanuatu’s approach reveals its efforts to maintain credibility in its immigration practices while balancing foreign investment interests.

Original Source: www.business-standard.com