Lalit Modi has surrendered his Indian passport and acquired citizenship in Vanuatu, confirmed by India’s Ministry of External Affairs. Modi faces allegations of financial misconduct and legal actions are ongoing. Concurrently, Indian officials are engaging in diplomatic discussions with Russia, particularly concerning the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing bilateral cooperation.
New Delhi has confirmed that Lalit Modi has surrendered his Indian passport and obtained citizenship in Vanuatu. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, noted that the Ministry is aware of his surrender application at the High Commission in London and that they are pursuing all cases against him legally. Jaiswal remarked, “The same will be examined in light of extant rules and procedures. We continue to pursue the case against him as required under law.”
Lalit Modi, a former vice-president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), faces allegations of bid-rigging, money laundering, and violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999. He left India in 2010 amid investigations into financial misconduct, including unauthorized fund transfers.
In other news, the Ministry of External Affairs also provided an update on Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s visit to Russia for Foreign Office consultations. The discussions cover all facets of India-Russia relations, encompassing political ties, economic matters, and energy partnerships.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar previously met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Johannesburg to discuss bilateral cooperation and the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing recent developments and affirming their commitment to remaining in contact. Jaishankar posted on X about the meeting, stating, “Reviewed the continued progress of India-Russia bilateral cooperation.”
In light of these ongoing developments, there is heightened global concern regarding the geopolitical dynamics involving Russia, especially in relation to sanctions and the situation in Ukraine, continuing in their complexity and unpredictability.
The recent developments regarding Lalit Modi’s citizenship acquisition by Vanuatu and his ongoing legal issues highlight significant implications for Indian authorities. Simultaneously, discussions between Indian and Russian officials reflect the evolving nature of international relations, especially amid conflicts like the one in Ukraine. The Ministry of External Affairs continues to monitor these situations closely to adhere to legal and diplomatic protocols.
Original Source: english.jagran.com
