New Delhi (Economy India): The extradition case of fugitive diamond trader Mehul Choksi, accused in the ₹13,850 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam, is set to begin on September 15 in Belgium. Choksi, arrested in Belgium on April 12, 2025, faces proceedings at the Belgian Federal Court, with India’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) presenting the case for his return.
India Submits Written Assurances
The Government of India, on September 8, provided a written assurance to the Belgian authorities regarding Choksi’s detention if extradited. The assurance outlined:
- Choksi will be lodged in Barrack No. 12 of Mumbai’s Arthur Road Jail, which accommodates six prisoners.
- He will be treated humanely and extended 14 facilities, including:
- 24-hour medical supervision
- Clean drinking water
- Nutritious meals
- Access to specialist doctors
- Sanitary toilets and hygienic conditions
These assurances aim to address Belgian court concerns about human rights and prison conditions in India.
Challenges from Choksi’s Legal Team
Choksi’s lawyers have strongly opposed the extradition, arguing:
- His arrest in Belgium was illegal.
- Choksi suffers from cancer and other health complications, requiring advanced medical care unavailable in India.
- His human rights could be compromised in Indian prisons.
They have filed petitions seeking bail and are preparing appeals for release on medical and humanitarian grounds.
Potential Roadblocks for India
Legal experts highlight three major risks for India in securing Choksi’s extradition:
- Medical Grounds – If the court accepts claims of Choksi’s critical health, it may block extradition.
- Lack of Evidence – The Belgian court will require strong documentary and legal proof; weak evidence could lead to dismissal.
- Human Rights Concerns – Courts in Europe often scrutinize prison conditions; failure to convince them could stall proceedings.
If India fails to establish its case convincingly, Choksi could be released.
Broader Context: Nirav Modi Case
Choksi, along with his nephew Nirav Modi, is a prime accused in the PNB fraud case. Both fled India in 2018, sparking an international manhunt. While Nirav Modi remains in custody in London with extradition proceedings ongoing, India sees Choksi’s return as crucial in delivering justice and reinforcing its global credibility in financial crime enforcement.
What Lies Ahead
- September 15, 2025: Extradition hearing begins in Belgian Federal Court.
- CBI and MEA lawyers will argue India’s case.
- Outcome depends on court’s acceptance of India’s evidence and assurances.
The case is expected to be a test of India’s extradition diplomacy, human rights assurances, and ability to hold high-profile economic offenders accountable.
(Economy India)
