The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken a significant step to bolster its capabilities in repatriating fugitives from abroad by establishing a specialized extradition cell. This new unit will meticulously analyze all proposals submitted by states, Union Territories, and other agencies concerning the extradition of individuals wanted in India. Its primary goal is to craft powerful and irrefutable extradition requests for foreign countries.
This initiative is a direct outcome of a recent two-day conference organized by the CBI, which focused on identifying and addressing the challenges and strategies involved in fugitive extraditions. During the conference, Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized the need for dedicated extradition cells within each state and Union Territory. These cells are expected to enhance the quality of extradition requests, improve coordination with the CBI and Interpol for tracking fugitives, and facilitate the creation of specialized detention facilities for them.
An internal order issued on October 22 formally established the extradition cell within the CBI, headed by a Deputy Inspector General (DIG). This cell will be responsible for evaluating the quality of evidence, ensuring compliance with foreign court requirements (such as video recordings of prison facilities), drafting necessary assurances, preparing comprehensive dossiers, verifying legal prerequisites like extradition treaties, and coordinating with Interpol and relevant state agencies for tracing fugitives and maintaining criminal databases.
Currently, India has 388 extradition requests pending with various countries, and 957 Interpol red notices have been issued against fugitives. The CBI, in collaboration with Interpol, has successfully brought back 36 fugitives this year, including notable cases like Tahawwur Rana, an accused in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, and economic offender Monika Kapoor.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is preparing to issue directives to all states and Union Territories, mandating the establishment of their own dedicated extradition units. These units will be led by senior officers and will be tasked with identifying specific jail facilities for housing extradited fugitives within their jurisdictions.
Discussions are also underway with the Ministry of External Affairs regarding the revocation of passports of fugitives against whom Interpol red notices have been issued, with a decision pending. Additionally, insights were shared by a senior official from the UK’s Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) during the conference, highlighting the procedural steps required to satisfy London courts and the importance of timely responses to queries.