Former chairman of the Indian Premier League Lalit Modi has applied for citizenship in Saint Lucia in the Caribbean, reported India Today. Modi is wanted in India for tax evasion and money laundering. He has been in the United Kingdom since leaving India in 2010 and has not returned, alleging that there have been threats against his life.
Modi’s wife and children have also applied for citizenship in the tax haven, reports said. However, their applications are pending and will only be approved after the island country’s Interpol have details of Modi’s criminal past, which India was asked to provide. There has been a warrant out for Modi’s arrest in India, and the Enforcement Directorate also requested his extradition from the UK.
The former cricket administrator is facing charges of money laundering. ED had sought a Red Corner Notice against Modi from Interpol in connection with a case registered against him under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The case is based on a criminal complaint filed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India in 2010, accusing Modi of misappropriating funds amounting to Rs 470 crore during his term as IPL chief. The Chennai Police had registered a case against him and six others.
Prominent businessman and former owner of United Spirits, Vijay Mallya, is also in the UK after leaving India in March. Mallya owes Rs 9,000 crore to 17 banks in India, and like Modi, has expressed his refusal to return to India.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!