In a development that raises fresh legal and diplomatic challenges, former Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Modi has renounced his Indian citizenship and acquired citizenship of Vanuatu, a small Pacific island nation notorious for its tax-friendly policies and lack of extradition treaties, a report by TV9 Bharatvarsh has stated.

The revelation comes exclusively through TV9 Bharatvarsh journalist Manish Jha, who has accessed official documents confirming Modi’s new nationality. A copy of Modi’s Vanuatu passport, obtained through international sources, shows that his new citizenship was formalized on December 30, 2024, making his return to India increasingly difficult, the news channel said.

Modi, who fled India in 2010 amid allegations of financial misconduct, money laundering and violations of foreign exchange laws, has been under the scanner of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for years. His acquisition of foreign citizenship effectively complicates India’s efforts to extradite him, a strategy reminiscent of fugitive diamond trader Mehul Choksi, who obtained Antiguan citizenship to sidestep legal repercussions.

According to a media statement from TV9 network, the former IPL czar faces multiple allegations, including money laundering, misappropriation of funds linked to IPL media rights and franchise deals, foreign exchange violations and acquisition of benami properties.

Despite persistent efforts by Indian authorities, Modi has successfully evaded prosecution, residing primarily in London. His latest move to obtain Vanuatu citizenship signals yet another legal roadblock in India’s attempts to bring him to justice.

Vanuatu, a small island nation in the Pacific Ocean, is known for its ‘Golden Passport’ programme, which grants citizenship in exchange for financial investment. Crucially, it lacks an extradition treaty with India, offering Modi a legal shield against any repatriation attempts. His newly issued passport (No. RV0191750) lists his full name as Lalit Kumar Modi, with his place of birth as New Delhi and date of birth as November 29, 1963.

The Indian government, along with the ED, now faces a formidable challenge in securing Modi’s extradition. With his Indian passport cancelled following the acquisition of foreign nationality, the options available to India include seeking an Interpol Red Notice to restrict his global mobility, applying diplomatic pressure on Vanuatu, and leveraging international financial crime frameworks to tighten legal scrutiny around him.

With thisTV9 Bharatvarsh once again proves its commitment to fearless journalism, it said.