Why Did the UK High Court Deny Fugitive Diamond Merchant Nirav Modi’s Bail Plea?
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Synopsis
The UK High Court has once again denied bail to fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi, amidst strong opposition from Indian authorities. With legal proceedings intensifying, both Modi and his accomplice Mehul Choksi face serious charges in connection to India's largest banking fraud. Will justice be served?
Key Takeaways
- Nirav Modi's bail plea was denied by the UK High Court.
- The CBI actively opposed his release.
- Modi is associated with a significant bank fraud case in India.
- Legal proceedings are in progress against Mehul Choksi in Belgium.
- Both fugitives are wanted to face trial in India.
New Delhi, May 15 (NationPress) The High Court of Justice, King’s Bench Division, in London has denied the bail application of fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi, who has made multiple unsuccessful attempts to secure his release.
This attempt faced strong resistance from the Crown Prosecution Service, which was supported by a skilled team from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The CBI had sent officials to London specifically for this case.
Thanks to the CBI's effective arguments, the bail was denied. As a fugitive economic offender, Modi is wanted in India for his involvement in a significant bank fraud case linked to Punjab National Bank, where he allegedly misappropriated ₹6,498.20 crore.
Since March 19, 2019, Modi has been in custody in the UK.
The UK High Court has already granted extradition to the Indian government.
This incident marks the tenth time Modi has sought bail since his arrest, with the CBI consistently opposing his release through the Crown Prosecution Service.
Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi are accused of orchestrating one of India’s most substantial banking frauds. They reportedly exploited fraudulent Letters of Undertaking (LOUs) from a branch of Punjab National Bank in Mumbai to divert large amounts from Indian financial institutions.
Investigators allege Modi swindled around ₹6,498 crore, whereas Choksi is said to have defrauded lenders of more than ₹7,000 crore. Both individuals fled India just before the CBI initiated its first case in February 2018.
While Modi remains incarcerated in the UK, legal proceedings against Choksi are progressing in Belgium.
Sources indicate that a court in Antwerp is scheduled to start hearing India’s extradition request for him on May 16.
Choksi, who was detained by Belgian authorities last month, had his initial bail request denied. Reports suggest that Indian agencies have provided additional evidence to bolster the prosecution's case ahead of his next bail hearing.
As judicial processes gain momentum in both the UK and Belgium, Indian authorities are hopeful about extraditing both fugitives to stand trial.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight the ongoing legal proceedings against Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi. Their actions have not only affected the banking system but also the trust of millions of citizens in financial institutions. The Indian government's relentless pursuit of justice demonstrates its commitment to upholding the law.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for Modi's bail plea denial?
The bail plea was denied due to strong opposition from the Crown Prosecution Service and the CBI, which provided compelling evidence against Modi.
What charges does Nirav Modi face?
Nirav Modi faces charges related to a massive bank fraud case involving Punjab National Bank, where he allegedly misappropriated ₹6,498.20 crore.
Where is Nirav Modi currently held?
Nirav Modi is currently incarcerated in the UK since March 19, 2019.
What is the status of Mehul Choksi's legal proceedings?
Mehul Choksi's legal proceedings are ongoing in Belgium, and a court hearing for his extradition request is scheduled.
How many times has Modi attempted to secure bail?
Nirav Modi has attempted to secure bail ten times since his arrest.
