On January 29, 2018, Punjab National Bank reported a fraud to the tune of Rs. 281 crore against Nirav Modi: a fugitive diamantaire, Mehul Choksi and others.
District Judge Sam Goozee of a Magistrate Court in the United Kingdom, today ruled extradition of Nirav Modi who stands trial in India in the (PNB) scam case making the distant dream a possibility.
The Court ruled that “Nirav Modi has a case to answer in India” on the ground as no bar to extradition was raised and the Court found a prima facie case of money laundering against Nirav Modi. The Court has reportedly stated that Nirav Modi conspired to destroy evidence and intimidate witnesses and clear links of his connivance with PNB officials has come to the fore.
The arguments put forth on behalf of Nirav Modi that the extradition would not be compatible with Article 3 and Article 6 of his Convention rights within the meaning of Human Rights Act, 1998, were rejected. The Court vehemently stated that “I am satisfied so I am sure that RP’s extradition to India, is compatible with his Convention Rights within the meaning of the Human rights Act, 1998.”
The Court further ruled that Nirav Modi has a right to appeal against this decision before High Court only after UK Secretary of State, Priti Patel takes a final call on extradition. The Court states “Nirav Modi will not be denied justice if he is extradited to India”.
Nirav Modi’s plea regarding his mental health was also dismissed on the ground that it is not “unusual for a man in his circumstances” further stating that he will be given adequate medical treatment and mental healthcare and Arthur Jail, Mumbai is fit for the fugitive.
[Story to be Updated]
Arunima Bose, Editorial Assistant has put this story together
[Source: News Reports]