India Seeks Mehul Choksi’s Extradition Officials to Visit Belgium

The Belgian Federal Public Service of Justice confirmed that India formally requested the extradition of fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi after authorities arrested him on April 12. A delegation of Indian officials plans to travel to Belgium soon to initiate the extradition process as early as possible, sources told India Today. Belgian authorities acknowledged the arrest and are actively coordinating legal proceedings while ensuring that Choksi receives access to legal representation during his detention.

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Choksi’s Arrest and Legal Appeal

Authorities apprehended Choksi, who faces charges in the ₹12,636 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case, just as he reportedly planned to flee to Switzerland for medical treatment. His lawyer confirmed the arrest and said they are preparing to file an appeal seeking his release from custody on medical grounds, as Choksi is currently undergoing treatment for cancer. He remains in a Belgian jail, with a bail hearing scheduled for at least a week later.

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India Prepares Legal Strategy

Indian officials are actively working on a legal strategy to keep Choksi behind bars and to begin extradition proceedings without delay. They are optimistic that the evidence against him will persuade the Belgian courts to accept India’s request. Sources have indicated that the Indian team will be present for the upcoming hearing in Belgium as part of their efforts to push the case forward.

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Choksi’s Citizenship and Belgian Residency

Choksi, who fled India in 2018 and obtained Antiguan citizenship through a citizenship-by-investment program, managed to secure an F-type residency card in Belgium in November 2024. He reportedly used documents belonging to his wife, Preeti Choksi, a Belgian national, to obtain the residency. Following his arrest, Belgian authorities are now preparing for further judicial action in line with India’s extradition request.

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