Vanuatu PM Jotham Napat has revoked Lalit Modi’s citizenship and ordered the cancellation of his passport to cooperate with Indian authorities pursuing him for alleged embezzlement. Modi’s Indian passport surrender request is being processed. Vanuatu’s citizenship-by-investment program continues to drive its economy.
Lalit Modi, a fugitive who acquired Vanuatu citizenship to avoid Indian authorities, has had his citizenship revoked. Prime Minister Jotham Napat has ordered the cancellation of Modi’s passport following involvement from India’s High Commissioner to New Zealand, Nita Bhushan, and representatives from other island nations. Modi is wanted in India for alleged embezzlement during his tenure as IPL chief, having fled to London in 2010.
On March 7, Lalit Modi submitted a request to surrender his Indian passport, which the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed it received at the Indian High Commission in London. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the request would be processed according to regulations and emphasized that India continues to pursue the case against him.
Vanuatu, located in the South Pacific Ocean between Australia and Fiji, has a growing economy based on agriculture, tourism, fishing, and offshore financial services. The nation, comprising 83 islands, allows citizenship by investment, with a standard fee of approximately 1.5 million USD, which serves as a significant revenue source for the government.
The decision to revoke Modi’s citizenship reflects Vanuatu’s commitment to addressing concerns raised by India regarding financial misconduct. Prime Minister Napat’s directive to the Citizenship Commission underscores the seriousness of the situation and the collaborative efforts among nations to enforce accountability.
In conclusion, Vanuatu’s Prime Minister Jotham Napat has officially revoked the citizenship of Lalit Modi, aligning with India’s efforts to address his alleged financial improprieties. The cancellation of Modi’s passport and the response from Indian authorities signify enhanced international cooperation to combat economic crimes. Vanuatu’s citizenship investment program remains a vital economic strategy, despite the implications of such cases on its global standing.
Original Source: www.lokmattimes.com
