The long-running legal battle involving fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi has taken another turn as a Belgian court has postponed his extradition hearing to October 2024. This development comes as another chapter in the massive ₹13,000 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case that rocked India's banking sector.
What Happened in the Belgian Court?
The court in Brussels has rescheduled Choksi's extradition hearing to October 2024, marking another delay in India's efforts to bring back the accused mastermind of one of the country's biggest banking scams. The hearing was initially expected to proceed much sooner, but legal complexities have pushed the timeline further.
The PNB Scam: A Quick Recap
Mehul Choksi, along with his nephew Nirav Modi, stands accused of orchestrating a massive fraud against Punjab National Bank through fraudulent Letters of Undertaking (LoUs). The scam, estimated at approximately ₹13,000 crore, involved obtaining credit from overseas branches of Indian banks using these fake guarantees.
Choksi's Controversial Citizenship Move
In a strategic move that complicated extradition proceedings, Choksi acquired Antiguan citizenship in 2017. This development has created additional legal hurdles for Indian authorities seeking his return to face trial. The citizenship change has become a central point in the extradition battle between Indian agencies and Choksi's legal team.
Current Status and Health Concerns
Choksi's legal team has been citing health issues as grounds against extradition, claiming he requires continuous medical attention. Meanwhile, Indian authorities maintain they have a strong case and are prepared to provide adequate medical facilities upon his return to India.
What's Next in the Legal Battle?
The October 2024 hearing will be crucial in determining whether Belgium will extradite Choksi to India. Both sides are expected to present extensive arguments regarding the validity of the extradition request, Choksi's health condition, and the legal merits of the case.
The delay means Indian investigative agencies will have more time to strengthen their documentation and address any concerns the Belgian court might raise about the extradition process.
