Choksi to Face Similar Outcome as Rana: Govt Officials Cite Modi's Role in Arrest

New Delhi, April 14 (NationPress) Following the apprehension of fugitive diamond merchant Mehul Choksi in Belgium, political figures from various parties praised this event as a notable achievement for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy, expressing optimism that the accused will soon be returned to India.

Choksi, alongside his nephew Nirav Modi, is wanted in the Rs 13,500 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud, and was detained in Belgium at India's request for extradition, as confirmed by sources from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

In response to the arrest, Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal stated, "The government led by Narendra Modi has accomplished this due to its effective foreign policy. This is part of a larger strategic plan."

Supporting this viewpoint, Union Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary remarked, "The Modi government adheres to a zero-tolerance stance against corruption. Anyone who has exploited the nation's underprivileged will face consequences. Choksi's arrest reflects this commitment, and he will be brought back to India following due process."

Choksi, a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda, had been living in Antwerp, Belgium, with his wife, Preeti Choksi, a citizen of Belgium. He reportedly departed from Antigua for cancer treatment and was intending to relocate to Switzerland.

Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao shared with IANS, "This is a legal and judicial procedure. Under PM Modi's guidance, the government remains steadfast on its zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and is utilizing every legal avenue to ensure justice for such offenders."

Madhya Pradesh Minister Vishvas Sarang declared, "This reflects the Narendra Modi administration -- zero tolerance for corruption, zero tolerance for terrorism. It's a significant triumph for our foreign policy. Tahawwur Rana is here, and soon Choksi will be as well."

Maharashtra Minister Ashish Shelar emphasized that the citizens of India demand accountability: "Public sentiment is clear -- anyone who exploits India will not go unpunished."

Maharashtra BJP MLA Atul Bhatkhalkar commented, "Using the Geetanjali brand, Choksi defrauded millions from Indian banks and absconded. His arrest is a welcome move, and the legal processes for his return should commence."

BJP MP Brij Lal expressed confidence, "Just as Tahawwur Rana was brought back, so too will Mehul Choksi be returned to India."

Conversely, Choksi's lawyer, Vijay Aggarwal, speaking to IANS, noted that the extradition process is not simple.

"India's extradition request regarding the Sanjay Bhandari case was denied. We will contest Choksi's arrest in Belgium, citing his medical condition and concerns regarding a fair trial and human rights," Aggarwal stated.

Choksi, he claimed, is currently undergoing treatment for cancer.

"He has the right to continue his treatment in Switzerland. Additionally, there are security threats and media scrutiny back home that could compromise the fairness of his trial," the lawyer added.