Vanuatu PM Jotham Napat Cancels Lalit Modi’s Passport amid Legal Pursuit

Vanuatu’s Prime Minister Jotham Napat has ordered the cancellation of Lalit Modi’s citizenship and passport, stemming from allegations of embezzlement pursued by Indian authorities. Modi’s request to surrender his Indian passport has been confirmed by India’s Ministry of External Affairs. Vanuatu’s economy benefits significantly from its citizenship by investment program.

Lalit Modi, a fugitive who sought Vanuatu citizenship to escape Indian authorities, has had his citizenship and passport revoked by Prime Minister Jotham Napat. This decision follows Modi’s request to surrender his Indian passport, which is under review by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India. The MEA confirmed that Indian authorities continue to pursue legal action against him, addressing allegations of significant embezzlement during his leadership in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

India’s High Commissioner to New Zealand, Nita Bhushan, along with officials from various island nations, contributed to the facilitation of this decision. Vanuatu, situated between Australia and Fiji, has a thriving economy based on agriculture, tourism, and financial services, and it generates substantial revenue through its citizenship by investment program, which allows foreigners to obtain citizenship for around $1.5 million USD.

Vanuatu’s government profits significantly from the sale of passports, highlighting the strategic importance of citizenship policies within the nation. Modi’s request for surrendering his Indian passport signals a continued legal battle as Indian agencies seek accountability for alleged financial crimes committed during his tenure as IPL chief.

In summary, Lalit Modi’s Vanuatu citizenship and passport have been revoked following a directive from Prime Minister Jotham Napat. This action arises from ongoing legal pursuits by Indian authorities regarding embezzlement allegations. Vanuatu’s economy relies heavily on its citizenship by investment program, underscoring its importance in international relations and economic strategy.

Original Source: www.lokmattimes.com