A Belgian court’s decision to reject Mehul Choksi’s appeal against extradition is a major stride towards securing his return to India. The court in Antwerp has validated his arrest based on India’s extradition request, moving the legal process forward.
Choksi, wanted for his alleged involvement in a ₹13,000 crore Punjab National Bank fraud, faces serious charges. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had submitted a comprehensive extradition request after Choksi was apprehended in Belgium on April 11.
The ruling comes as a significant setback for Choksi, who, along with his nephew Nirav Modi (currently in a London prison), is accused of orchestrating a large-scale bank fraud. The CBI’s investigation revealed that Choksi alone is believed to have siphoned off approximately ₹6,400 crore of the total amount.
India has actively pursued Choksi’s extradition, providing substantial evidence of fraud and fund diversion to Belgian authorities. The Indian government has also assured Belgium of Choksi’s welfare upon extradition, guaranteeing that he will be held in appropriate facilities, provided with necessary medical and other amenities, and will not face solitary confinement, adhering to European standards.
Choksi’s defense had argued that he renounced his Indian citizenship after obtaining citizenship from Antigua and Barbuda. However, investigators presented evidence suggesting he remains an Indian citizen implicated in multiple bank frauds.
While Choksi may still have the option to appeal the decision in higher courts, this ruling represents a critical victory for India’s efforts to bring economic offenders to account. It signifies a crucial stage cleared in the long road to justice.