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Terrorists to Economic Offenders: 5 Fugitives India Is Trying To Extradite

 



The Indian government has been relentless in its pursuit of fugitives who have evaded justice, from terrorists to high-profile economic offenders. Over the years, several notorious individuals have sought refuge in countries far and wide, hoping to escape the long arm of Indian law. However, India’s extradition efforts have intensified, with a clear message: criminals and terrorists cannot find safe havens, especially in nations that are signatories to extradition agreements with India.

As of last month, the Indian government revealed that one-third of the fugitives it seeks to bring back are reportedly hiding in the United States, which it claims has increasingly become a "safe haven" for such individuals. The ongoing legal and diplomatic battles highlight the complexity of extraditing criminals across international borders, and the high stakes involved in ensuring justice is served.

Here are five key fugitives India is trying to extradite, including terrorists and economic offenders, who have become symbols of India’s fight against global criminal networks:

1. Tahawwur Hussain Rana

One of the most prominent fugitives in India’s extradition battle is Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a Pakistani-origin Canadian businessman convicted in the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks. Rana, a former Pakistani Army doctor, was found to have had prior knowledge of the attacks in which over 160 people were killed. His role in aiding the terrorist organization Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) with logistical support has been well-documented.

Rana was initially arrested in 2009 for his involvement in a terror plot in Denmark, and he’s been a major figure in India’s attempts to bring justice to the victims of the 2008 attacks. His extradition to India has been a long-standing issue, with his last legal avenue in the United States being blocked just recently. The US Supreme Court ruled to approve his extradition to India, dismissing his request for a review. This marks a significant step forward in India’s efforts to bring him to trial.

2. Nirav Modi

A name that has dominated headlines in recent years due to one of the largest financial frauds in India’s history, Nirav Modi is an international fugitive wanted for orchestrating a massive ₹13,000 crore ($2 billion) scam involving Punjab National Bank (PNB). Modi, a diamantaire and owner of the Nirav Modi luxury brand, fled India in 2018 before charges of fraud, money laundering, and embezzlement could be brought against him.

After being arrested in London, Modi’s extradition process to India has been marred by several delays and legal battles. In 2020, a UK court ruled that he could be extradited to India, but he continues to fight his case, claiming that he would not get a fair trial in India. As of now, the legal proceedings are ongoing, and India remains committed to bringing him back to face justice.

3. Vijay Mallya

Another high-profile economic offender, Vijay Mallya, a former billionaire businessman and owner of the now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines, is accused of defaulting on loans amounting to over ₹9,000 crore (approximately $1.3 billion). Mallya fled to the UK in 2016, citing political persecution in India, but the Indian authorities have pursued his extradition ever since.

Mallya’s case has drawn significant attention due to his lavish lifestyle and connections in both India and abroad. Despite several court rulings in favor of his extradition, he continues to fight the charges in UK courts. His case highlights the challenges of extraditing financial offenders who manage to use international legal systems to prolong their freedom.

4. David Headley

David Headley, a dual American-Pakistani national, played a key role in the planning and execution of the 2008 Mumbai attacks. Headley’s involvement was instrumental in scouting locations for the attack and providing logistical support to the terrorists. After the attacks, Headley was arrested by US authorities in 2009 for his involvement in the plot.

While Headley has been sentenced in the US for his role in the attacks, India has demanded his extradition to face trial in Indian courts for the murder of over 160 people. The US has so far refused to extradite him, citing his cooperation with US authorities in their investigations. India, however, continues to push for his return, hoping to ensure that he faces justice for his role in one of the most horrific terrorist attacks in its history.

5. Zakir Naik

Zakir Naik, an Islamic preacher and founder of the controversial Peace TV channel, is wanted by India for alleged terrorist activities and incitement to violence. Naik fled India in 2016 following accusations of promoting terrorism and money laundering. His speeches have been linked to several acts of terrorism in India, including the 2016 Dhaka attack.

Naik's extradition has been a contentious issue, with India urging countries like Malaysia and Saudi Arabia—where Naik has reportedly found refuge—to assist in bringing him to justice. However, as of now, Naik remains elusive, continuing his activities while avoiding the long arm of Indian law.

Conclusion

India’s pursuit of these fugitives is more than just a matter of criminal justice; it is about sending a clear message to criminals and terrorists that no matter where they flee, they will eventually be held accountable. The ongoing extradition efforts highlight the importance of international cooperation in tackling cross-border crime, whether it’s terrorism or financial fraud.

While there are many hurdles in these extradition battles, India remains determined to ensure that these fugitives face the consequences of their actions. Whether it’s seeking justice for the victims of the 2008 Mumbai attacks or recovering the billions defrauded by economic offenders, India’s fight for justice continues unabated.

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