London is all set to extradite diamond trader Nirav Modi to India, the prime accused in a Rs 13,000 crore scam involving the Punjab National Bank.
The United Kingdom’s government has agreed to extradite him to India. The extradition order was signed by United Kingdom Home Secretary Priti Patel, Indian embassy sources in the UK said on Friday.
Nirav Modi has been charged with fraud and money laundering in connection with Punjab National Bank loans in India.
He is currently being held at Wandsworth Prison in London. Nirav Modi has been given 14 days to seek permission to approach the High Court against the latest order issued by the Home Secretary.
The Westminster Magistrates’ Court on February 25 clarified that cases had been registered in India alleging that Nirav Modi along with his uncle Mehul Choksi had defrauded the Punjab National Bank and that he should answer to the courts in India. The decision to hand over Nirav to India was left to the Home Ministry.
Dismissing the petition filed by him seeking to grant him bail. The court rejected Nirav’s contention that he was ill and that he would receive proper treatment in India.
The Indian government had enough evidence to suggest that Modi was the culprit in the Punjab National Bank fraud case. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) have registered cases against Nirav Modi for alleged money laundering, threatening witnesses, and destroying evidence.
The Westminster Magistrates’ Court ruled out the bail- could not be granted. According to the UK Assignment Act – 2003 the judge conveys his opinion to the Home Secretary.
The UK Cabinet Minister, who has the power to oversee the extradition treaty between India and the UK, will have to make a decision within two months. Accordingly, Home Minister Priti Patel has expressed a willingness to hand over Nirav Modi.
Nirav Modi is likely to be shifted from Wandsworth Jail to Barrack No. 12 in Arthur Road Jail in Mumbai. Nirav Modi has been allowed to approach the London High Court challenging the UK Home Minister’s orders.
If he goes to the high court, the trial will continue for some time. It is learned that Nirav Modi can also file an appeal in the UK Supreme Court. However, it will only be possible if the London High Court allows it.
Also Read: Joe Biden to pull troops from Afghanistan by September 11
1 Comment