PORT VILA, Vanuatu — Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat has ordered the cancellation of the passport of fugitive businessman and former Indian Premier League (IPL) chief Lalit Modi, citing attempts to avoid extradition. The decision was made public on March 10, 2025, following Modi’s application to surrender his Indian passport at the Indian High Commission in London.
Modi, who has been under investigation for charges including bid-rigging and money laundering during his tenure with the IPL, had utilized Vanuatu citizenship allegedly as a means to evade ongoing extradition efforts. The Vanuatu Citizenship Commission was instructed to revoke his passport based on these revelations.
“Citizenship and passport privileges must not be misused to escape the rule of law and international obligations,” stated Prime Minister Napat. “The decision reflects our commitment to uphold the principles of justice and prevent the misuse of Vanuatu citizenship.”
Modi’s legal troubles trace back to accusations of violating the Indian Foreign Exchange Management Act of 1999, alongside other financial misconduct related to a substantial television rights deal. Despite efforts by Indian authorities, including requests for Interpol alerts, these extradition efforts have faced hurdles, primarily due to a lack of conclusive evidence as determined by international law enforcement agencies.
The revocation of Modi’s Vanuatu passport is a pivotal moment in the international pursuit of justice concerning his case. Modi’s strategy to relinquish his Indian nationality, coupled with procuring Vanuatu citizenship, was perceived as a tactical move to thwart extradition efforts by Indian authorities.
This development could escalate diplomatic engagements between Vanuatu and India, potentially influencing international relations policies concerning citizenship regulations and extradition processes. The cancellation underscores a global stance that fugitive financiers cannot exploit international loopholes to circumvent legal accountability.
In related developments, the Indian government has welcomed Vanuatu’s decision, considering it a significant step towards reinforcing international cooperation against financial crimes. Legal experts speculate that this may expedite the process of Modi’s extradition, aligning with India’s pursuit of bringing him to justice for the alleged financial misdeeds during his IPL leadership.
Lalit Modi, once a prominent figure in international cricket administration, has been embroiled in controversy since 2010 when allegations of financial irregularities first emerged. His case continues to serve as a cautionary tale regarding the use of citizenship as a shield against judicial proceedings.
As the situation unfolds, the international community will be keenly observing the implications of Vanuatu’s decision on similar cases, which involve the interplay of citizenship rights and international justice.
