Tue Mar 11 14:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Vanuatu Revokes Passport of Fugitive Indian IPL Chief Lalit Modi

**Port Vila, Vanuatu –** Vanuatu has revoked the citizenship and passport of Lalit Modi, the former chairman of the Indian Premier League (IPL), following a request from the Indian government. While praising the island nation as “truly heavenly,” Modi is wanted in India on charges of financial fraud, including money laundering and bid-rigging.

Prime Minister Jotham Napat confirmed the revocation, stating that while Modi’s passport was issued after standard checks, including Interpol screenings which at the time showed no criminal convictions, subsequent requests from India to issue an Interpol Red Notice were rejected due to insufficient evidence. The Prime Minister emphasized that Vanuatu citizenship is a privilege, not a right.

Modi, who acquired Vanuatu citizenship through the country’s Citizenship by Investment program, has resided in London since leaving India in 2010 to avoid prosecution. India, which lacks a diplomatic mission in Vanuatu, worked through its high commission in New Zealand to secure the revocation. Despite multiple attempts by Indian authorities to extradite Modi, he remains in London. The former IPL chief faces serious allegations of financial misconduct and embezzlement during his tenure.

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