Vanuatu Cancels Lalit Modi’s Passport Over Extradition Evasion Allegations
March 10, 2025 – Vanuatu has revoked the passport of Lalit Modi, the controversial founder of the Indian Premier League (IPL), following allegations that he exploited the island nation’s citizenship to evade extradition to India. The decision, announced by Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat, underscores the government’s stance that citizenship is a privilege, not a shield for fugitives.
Background
Lalit Modi, once a prominent figure in Indian cricket, fled India in 2010 amid allegations of financial irregularities, including embezzlement during his tenure as IPL chief. Wanted by Indian authorities, Modi has been residing in the United Kingdom. He recently acquired Vanuatu citizenship through its Citizenship by Investment Program, granting him a Vanuatu passport. In a related move, Modi applied to surrender his Indian passport at the Indian High Commission in London, further complicating his legal status.
Reasons for Cancellation
Prime Minister Napat cited Modi’s apparent intent to avoid extradition as the primary reason for the cancellation. “Citizenship must be sought for legitimate purposes, not to escape justice,” Napat stated, emphasizing that Modi’s actions undermined the integrity of Vanuatu’s citizenship process. The decision follows revelations that Modi leveraged his Vanuatu citizenship to thwart India’s efforts to bring him back for trial.
Adding to the complexity, Interpol twice rejected India’s requests to issue an alert notice against Modi, citing insufficient judicial evidence. Had such a notice been issued, Modi’s citizenship application would likely have been denied outright.
Implications
The cancellation carries significant consequences across legal, diplomatic, and personal spheres:
- Legal Pursuit: Without Vanuatu citizenship, Modi’s extradition to India becomes more feasible, though the process hinges on international agreements and his current status in the UK. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has reiterated its commitment to pursuing Modi’s case under the law.
- Travel Restrictions: The loss of his Vanuatu passport severely limits Modi’s mobility, potentially isolating him further as legal pressures mount.
- International Cooperation: The move signals a growing global resolve to prevent citizenship from being used as a loophole by fugitives, bolstering cooperation between nations.
- Vanuatu’s Reputation: By acting decisively, Vanuatu may strengthen the credibility of its Citizenship by Investment Program, deterring misuse while appealing to legitimate applicants.
Broader Impact
For Modi, the cancellation intensifies an already precarious situation. His attempt to surrender his Indian passport now faces heightened scrutiny, and his residence in the UK could come under review. Meanwhile, the decision may ripple through Vanuatu’s investment program, potentially affecting its economic appeal—though experts suggest the emphasis on integrity could ultimately attract more credible investors.
India continues to press its case against Modi, with authorities vowing to uphold justice. As the saga unfolds, the cancellation marks a pivotal moment in the international effort to hold high-profile fugitives accountable.
