Vanuatu PM Cancels Lalit Modi’s Passport After India’s Interpol Alert Rejections

Prime Minister Jotham Napat emphasises that Vanuatu citizenship is a privilege, not a means to evade extradition

March 10, 2025: Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat has ordered the immediate cancellation of Indian Premier League (IPL) founder Lalit Modi’s passport, citing India’s failed attempts to secure an Interpol alert against him due to insufficient evidence.

In an official statement, PM Napat asserted that Vanuatu citizenship is a privilege, not a right, and stressed that individuals must provide legitimate reasons for obtaining it.

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“None of those legitimate reasons include attempting to avoid extradition, which recent facts clearly indicate was Mr. Modi’s intention,” the statement read.

Interpol Twice Rejected India’s Alert Request

According to Napat, Interpol twice rejected Indian authorities’ requests for an alert notice on Lalit Modi, citing a lack of substantive judicial evidence. Had such an alert been issued, it would have automatically disqualified him from Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment Programme.

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“While all standard background checks, including Interpol screenings, conducted during his application showed no criminal convictions, I have been made aware that Interpol rejected India’s requests. This revelation warrants immediate action on his passport cancellation,” Napat stated.

Tightened Citizenship Scrutiny in Vanuatu

The Vanuatu government has strengthened the due diligence process in its Citizenship by Investment Programme, ensuring enhanced triple-agency checks that include Interpol verification.

PM Napat emphasized that these measures have resulted in stricter vetting, with more applications being rejected under financial intelligence scrutiny.

Who is Lalit Modi?

Lalit Modi, the former IPL chairman, has been a fugitive from Indian law enforcement since 2010, facing multiple allegations of financial irregularities, tax evasion, and money laundering. He has lived in self-imposed exile in the UK, maintaining that he is a victim of political vendetta.

What’s Next for Lalit Modi?

With his Vanuatu passport revoked, Modi’s legal options may narrow further, potentially complicating his attempts to avoid extradition to India. However, he is known to hold multiple residencies and passports, making his next move uncertain.

This decision by Vanuatu signals a growing global crackdown on individuals seeking alternative citizenship to evade legal consequences. It remains to be seen whether India will pursue further diplomatic efforts to bring Modi to justice.

Tags: Lalit Modi, Vanuatu Passport, Interpol Alert, IPL Founder, Jotham Napat, Citizenship Revocation, Extradition, India Legal Cases