Why Did India Resume Extradition to the US After 17 Years?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, India has restarted extraditions to the US after a 17-year break, returning an Indian citizen involved in a fatal car accident. This pivotal case marks a crucial moment in international legal cooperation and accountability.
Key Takeaways
- India has resumed extraditions to the US after 17 years.
- Ganesh Shenoy was extradited for involvement in a fatal car crash.
- The extradition highlights the importance of international legal cooperation.
- Shenoy faces serious charges under New York law.
- The extradition treaty between India and the US plays a crucial role in legal accountability.
New York, Sep 30 (NationPress) India has reinstated extraditions to the US after a gap of 17 years, sending back an Indian national who is wanted for criminal charges in the US, as confirmed by officials.
Ganesh Shenoy, aged 54, absconded to India following a tragic incident that resulted in the death of a 44-year-old man two decades ago. He was apprehended by the US Marshals Service in Mumbai and flown to the US on Thursday, according to the Nassau County prosecutor's office.
“After years of eluding justice and evading prosecution, my office has successfully returned this defendant to the United States to face charges for the heartbreaking demise of a husband and father over 20 years ago,” remarked prosecutor Anne Donnelly.
He appeared in court on Friday, where the judge mandated that he be held without bail, she added.
The fatal crash occurred in the early hours of April 2005 in Hicksville, a suburb of New York City, while the victim, Philip Mastropolo, was en route to work.
Donnelly indicated that Shenoy, allegedly driving at double the speed limit, ran a red light and collided with Mastropolo’s vehicle with such impact that it skidded approximately 20 meters before crashing into a truck.
Mastropolo died instantly.
Shenoy was transported to a hospital but declined medical assistance.
Despite his Indian passport being seized, he managed to flee to India, traveling from New York to Mumbai just 14 days later, her office reported.
In August 2005, he was charged with second-degree manslaughter in Nassau County, and an Interpol Red Notice was subsequently issued.
The second-degree manslaughter charge Shenoy faces under New York law aligns with the equivalent offense in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita regarding rash or negligent acts not amounting to culpable homicide.
India and the US formalized an extradition treaty in 1997.
This treaty facilitates the extradition of individuals committing criminal offenses recognized by both nations, punishable by a term exceeding one year.
Under New York law, the maximum penalty for second-degree manslaughter is 15 years.
Point of View
It is paramount to recognize the importance of this extradition in reinforcing the commitment of both India and the US to uphold justice. This case exemplifies the collaborative efforts between nations in addressing criminal activities, ensuring that individuals are held accountable for their actions, no matter how long it takes.
NationPress
30/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted India to resume extraditions to the US?
India resumed extraditions to the US to strengthen international legal cooperation and to address long-standing criminal cases, such as the one involving Ganesh Shenoy.
What were the charges against Ganesh Shenoy?
Ganesh Shenoy faces charges of second-degree manslaughter related to a fatal car crash that occurred over 20 years ago.
How did Shenoy evade extradition for so long?
Despite having his Indian passport confiscated, Shenoy managed to evade authorities and fled to India shortly after the incident.
What is the significance of the extradition treaty between India and the US?
The extradition treaty, signed in 1997, allows for the extradition of individuals charged with crimes recognized by both countries, ensuring accountability and justice.
What is the potential penalty for second-degree manslaughter in New York?
Under New York law, the maximum penalty for second-degree manslaughter is 15 years in prison.
