Mon Mar 10 05:11:27 UTC 2025: ## Vanuatu Revokes Lalit Modi’s Citizenship After Interpol Rejection
**Port Vila, Vanuatu/New Delhi –** Vanuatu’s Prime Minister, Jotham Napat, announced on Monday the revocation of Lalit Modi’s citizenship, citing Interpol’s rejection of Indian extradition requests due to insufficient evidence. The decision follows revelations that Interpol twice denied India’s request for an alert notice on Modi, a key factor in the initial granting of Vanuatu citizenship.
Modi, founder of the Indian Premier League (IPL), is wanted in India on charges of tax evasion and embezzlement. He has resided in London for over a decade, evading extradition attempts. According to the Indian External Affairs Ministry, Modi has now applied to surrender his Indian passport.
Prime Minister Napat emphasized that Vanuatu citizenship is a privilege, not a right, and should not be sought to avoid legal proceedings. He stated that Modi’s application clearly indicated an intention to evade extradition, violating the principles of Vanuatu’s citizenship program. The Indian government has confirmed its awareness of Modi’s acquisition of Vanuatu citizenship and is currently processing his application to surrender his Indian passport. The case highlights the ongoing legal battle between India and Modi, and the complexities of international extradition procedures.
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