In a renewed legal effort, fugitive businessman Nirav Modi has approached the UK High Court to reopen his extradition appeal against being sent back to India in connection with the Punjab National Bank fraud case. His plea comes after UK authorities had earlier approved his extradition.
During the hearing, Modi’s legal team argued that he faces a “real risk of torture” if extradited. The defense claimed he could be subjected to inhuman or degrading treatment during interrogation and questioned the effectiveness of assurances provided by Indian authorities regarding his safety. They also raised concerns about possible additional legal actions and the risk of being transferred between multiple investigative agencies.
Opposing the plea, the Crown Prosecution Service, representing the Indian government, stated that the application was delayed and lacked merit. It argued that India has already given binding sovereign assurances and highlighted the high-profile nature of the case, which reduces the likelihood of any misconduct. Officials maintained that adequate safeguards are in place to ensure Modi’s safety upon extradition.
The court has reserved its judgment after completing hearings in London. If the plea is rejected, it could clear the way for Modi’s extradition to India, where he is expected to be held in Mumbai’s Arthur Road Jail. Modi, accused in the ₹13,000 crore fraud case involving charges of fraud, money laundering and tampering with evidence, has been in UK custody since 2019 and has exhausted multiple bail and appeal attempts. The decision will determine whether the case is reopened or the long-pending extradition process moves forward.
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