Lalit Modi Applies To Surrender Indian Passport in London
Lalit Modi has applied to surrender his Indian passport in London and acquired Vanuatu's citizenship. However, the Vanuatu PM has ordered its cancellation.
Lalit Modi, the former Vice President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and founder of the Indian Premier League (IPL), has made headlines again. On 7th March 2025, he applied to surrender his Indian passport at the High Commission of India in London. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the news, stating that his application will be examined as per rules. Modi, who fled India in 2010 amid allegations of financial irregularities, has been living in the UK since then.
Why is Lalit Modi Wanted?
Modi is accused of bid-rigging, money laundering, and violating the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). He is also charged with financial lapses and unauthorized fund transfers during his time with the BCCI. Indian authorities have been trying to extradite him, but Interpol rejected India’s requests due to a lack of solid evidence.
Vanuatu Citizenship Cancelled
Modi had acquired citizenship of Vanuatu, a small country in the South Pacific, through its Citizenship by Investment program. However, on 10th March, Vanuatu’s Prime Minister Jotham Napat ordered the cancellation of Modi’s passport, calling it an attempt to avoid extradition to India. PM Napat emphasized that citizenship is a privilege, not a right, and should not be used to escape legal proceedings.
What’s Next for Lalit Modi?
Modi’s legal troubles are far from over. With his Vanuatu citizenship revoked and his Indian passport under scrutiny, his options for safe havens are shrinking. Indian authorities continue to seek his extradition from the UK, but the lack of an Interpol Red Notice complicates the process.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Modi shared photos of Vanuatu, calling it a “heavenly country” and urging people to visit. Meanwhile, the world watches to see if India’s efforts to bring him back will succeed.
Conclusion
Lalit Modi’s case highlights the challenges of dealing with financial crimes and extradition. As his legal battles intensify, the question remains: Will India finally bring him back to face justice? Only time will tell.
