A special team from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrived in London to expedite the extradition of fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi, the primary accused in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam. According to sources, the legal hurdles preventing his return to India have nearly concluded, as most major legal options available to him in the United Kingdom have been exhausted. The CBI team is currently coordinating with British officials and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to finalize the necessary paperwork and security arrangements for his transfer.
Operational Phase and Return of the CBI Team
The CBI officials are scheduled to return to India on Thursday, April 16. Following their return, a report will be submitted, which will serve as the basis for executing the final operational phase of the extradition. The successful return of Nirav Modi is viewed as a significant milestone for the Indian government and investigative agencies. The team's discussions in London focused on ensuring that all administrative requirements are met for a smooth transition.
Legal Proceedings at the European Court of Human Rights
Within approximately two weeks of returning from London, the CBI team is expected to travel to Strasbourg, France, to present arguments before the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). Nirav Modi has approached the ECHR as a final attempt to stall his extradition. Indian investigative agencies remain confident that his petition won't be upheld. The CBI intends to argue strongly that his extradition to India doesn't constitute any violation of human rights.
Anonymity and Confidentiality in ECHR Proceedings
The European Court of Human Rights has granted Nirav Modi anonymity status pending the resolution of his petition against extradition. The court has clarified that the proceedings will remain confidential and will be conducted in private. According to the court's statement, no public information will be released regarding cases where the applicant is granted anonymity and the case files are deemed confidential. A hearing on this matter is expected to take place within the next two weeks.
Previous Legal Setbacks and Detention Status
In March 2026, the UK High Court dismissed Nirav Modi's petition seeking a fresh hearing of his extradition case. The court rejected arguments from his legal counsel suggesting he might face torture in India, while the court ruled on March 25 that there is no real risk of ill-treatment during his transit from jail to court in Mumbai. Nirav Modi has been detained in a London prison since 2019 following his arrest at the request of Indian agencies. His bail applications have been rejected 11 times, as the court considers him a flight risk.