Mehul Choksi Seeks Court’s Relief Citing Health Issues and Incapacity to Travel

Mehul Choksi has notified the court of his inability to return to India due to significant health complications, supported by medical reports from Belgium. He claims to suffer from severe mental health issues resulting from a past abduction linked to Indian authorities. The Indian government, however, challenges his claims, asserting his obligation to face legal consequences for a significant bank fraud case as extradition efforts progress.

Mehul Choksi has informed the court that he is unable to travel to India due to his medical conditions, which are substantiated by a doctor’s report from Antwerp, Belgium, declaring him “100% incapable of travelling” until August 30, 2025. Additionally, Choksi has submitted a psychiatrist’s evaluation stating that he experiences “suicidal thoughts” and has been facing severe mental health issues since allegedly being abducted from Antigua in 2023, purportedly at the request of Indian authorities.

In his application, Choksi highlighted multiple attempts to cooperate with Indian agencies through video conferencing but claims these efforts were unfruitful. A senior Indian government official countered this, asserting that Choksi must return to India to receive treatment due to the country’s advanced medical facilities. The official emphasized that Choksi cannot evade legal responsibilities, especially given his alleged involvement in a significant bank fraud totaling $2 billion.

Choksi argued he should not be labeled a “fugitive economic offender” as he asserts he is not avoiding prosecution, but is genuinely incapacitated. He explained that he traveled to Brussels for urgent medical care, despite the risk to his health, due to limited resources available in Antigua. Indian investigative agencies are currently working to extradite him from Belgium, having obtained adequate documentation to facilitate this process.

The Central Bureau of Investigation has requested Choksi’s immediate detention following reports of his location in Belgium. Belgian authorities had previously sought an extradition request from India, which has been completed to enable Choksi’s return for legal proceedings.

Choksi argues he cannot return to India due to severe health issues and has submitted multiple medical opinions to support his claims. However, Indian officials dispute his reasons and insist on his legal accountability for alleged financial crimes. Presently, efforts for his extradition from Belgium are underway as authorities stress the necessity of his cooperation in ongoing investigations.

Original Source: m.economictimes.com