Lalit Modi faces setback as Vanuatu cancels passport

Former Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Modi has suffered a major setback as the Prime Minister of Vanuatu, Jotham Napat, has ordered the cancellation of his passport. The directive follows revelations that Modi obtained Vanuatu citizenship despite being wanted by Indian authorities.

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Modi, who left India in 2010 amid financial misconduct allegations, had been residing in the UK. Seeking to avoid deportation, he had secured a Vanuatu passport. However, the country’s Citizenship Commission has now been instructed to revoke it. Reports suggest that Modi had recently reclaimed Indian citizenship, raising further questions about his legal status.

Vanuatu’s government was reportedly unaware of Modi’s controversial past when granting him a passport. The lack of an Interpol notice contributed to the oversight, as previous Indian attempts to issue an alert were rejected. However, fresh media reports have prompted authorities to act swiftly.

With Vanuatu no longer an option, Modi’s ability to evade legal proceedings is shrinking. Indian agencies accuse him of financial irregularities amounting to crores of rupees during his IPL tenure. Though he remains in England, recent developments could leave him with no escape route.

Adding to the intrigue, Modi recently surrendered his passport at the Indian High Commission in London, fueling speculation about his next move. The developments mark a significant shift in his long-standing legal battle.