- By Raju Kumar
- Wed, 26 Mar 2025 07:55 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Mehul Choksi Extradition Case:
The Belgian government confirmed the presence of fugitive diamond trader Mehul Choksi - one of India's most wanted in connection with the Punjab National Bank (PNB) loan fraud case - in its country.
David Jordens, Spokesperson and Head of Service for social media and press at Belgium's Federal Public Service (FPS) Foreign Affairs said the government was closely monitoring the case of Choksi. He asserted the matter is being handled with significant attention.
"I can confirm that the Federal Public Service (FPS) Foreign Affairs is aware of this case and attaches great importance and attention to it. However, we do not comment on individual cases. Furthermore, this case falls under the competence of the Federal Public Service Justice," he said when asked about Choksi's possible presence in Belgium.
His remarks indicate that while the Belgian government is monitoring the situation, jurisdiction over the matter primarily lies with the justice department.
The FPS Foreign Affairs continues to actively follow developments related to the case, Jordens further assured.
While no additional details were disclosed regarding Choksi's whereabouts, the statement affirms that Belgian authorities are engaged with the case and remain informed of any significant updates.
Choksi left Antigua & Barbuda
Earlier, Antigua & Barbuda's Foreign Minister, EP Chet Greene, addressed Choksi's status, clarifying that he had left the island for medical treatment abroad but remains a citizen of the country.
"Mehul Choksi is not on the island, I am told he left Antigua for medical attention abroad. He remains a citizen of Antigua & Barbuda. Your government and my government are working together on this matter. We have some traditions in democracy. We both respect the rule of law. The matter of Choksi has been subjected to legal review. Until such time it is reviewed and determined, there is nothing I can say, or any of us can say or do," Greene explained to the news agency ANI.
What is the case against Choksi?
Choksi, along with his nephew Nirav Modi, is wanted by Indian authorities for his alleged involvement in the Punjab National Bank scam, in which they are accused of defrauding the bank of over Rs14,000 crore. Greene highlighted that the governments of India and Antigua & Barbuda continue to cooperate while ensuring adherence to legal procedures and democratic norms.
Why Is Extradition Delayed?
Choksi's extradition has been delayed due to his recent acquisition of Belgian residency. According to the media reports, he obtained an F Residency Card in Belgium, which allows him to live there with his Belgian citizen wife, Preeti Choksi. This development complicates India's efforts to extradite him, as Choksi can now potentially travel freely within European nations.
Meanwhile, the Indian authorities have requested Choksi's extradition from Belgium, but the process is being hindered by his alleged use of deceptive and fraudulent documents to obtain residency.
(With ANI inputs)