India's Extradition Progress: 42 Fugitives Returned in Two Years, Amit Shah Discusses Future Plans for Nirav Modi and Mallya

Patna:

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Saturday that the government has successfully extradited 42 fugitives over the past two years, with plans to bring back many more once judicial processes in their host countries conclude. During NDTV's Bihar Power Play conclave, the senior BJP leader discussed strategies for returning fugitives who have escaped India after committing significant financial crimes.

High-profile fugitives wanted in India include diamantaire Nirav Modi and liquor baron Vijay Mallya, both accused in scams involving thousands of crores. Currently, they face extradition proceedings in the United Kingdom, where judicial clearance is required before they can be returned to India.

Shah characterized the extradition process as "very complex" but emphasized that Indian agencies are diligently pursuing these fugitives according to international protocols.

During the interview, Shah elaborated on the infrastructure established to handle such cases: "It's a very complex process that requires navigating various countries' legal systems and court procedures. We've established 'India Net' under the CBI specifically for this purpose. This system issues Blue Corner notices against fugitives nationwide, works with Interpol to secure arrests, and manages the entire extradition process."

The minister provided reassurance that ongoing extradition cases against numerous fugitives will result in their return following proper judicial proceedings. He noted that a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been developed after conducting workshops with all relevant agencies to streamline this process.

Shah also stated, "In the last two years, approximately 42 fugitives have been brought back to India. Some cases are still proceeding through courts in foreign countries. Very few individuals have escaped action completely."

Criticizing the opposition, the minister claimed the previous UPA government lacked necessary enforcement. "Since our government took office, fugitives are being actively pursued. They're being apprehended, and the process of transferring them from foreign detention to Indian custody is underway," he concluded.