Lalit Modi’s decision to acquire Vanuatu citizenship adds a new layer of complexity to his legal battles in India. His application to surrender his Indian passport at the High Commission in London signals a significant shift, possibly making extradition efforts even more challenging. Given that Vanuatu has no extradition treaty with India, this move could provide Modi with a legal shield against Indian authorities.
Vanuatu’s golden passport scheme has attracted several wealthy individuals due to its speed and minimal documentation requirements. The fact that at least 30 Indians have acquired Vanuatu citizenship in the past two years highlights the growing trend among high-net-worth individuals seeking alternative citizenships for financial or legal advantages. However, the program has come under international scrutiny for allegedly enabling financial crimes and tax evasion, particularly among Chinese and Russian applicants.
For India, Modi’s citizenship switch is a strategic concern. While authorities have been pursuing his extradition for years, his shift to a jurisdiction with looser regulations might further stall these efforts. However, the MEA’s response indicates that India will continue its legal proceedings against him. The broader implications of this move extend to India’s handling of financial fugitives and the global discourse on golden passport programs, which have increasingly come under regulatory pressure from Western nations.
