Send Lalit Modi back to India, New Delhi tells London

India has asked the United Kingdom to send back former Indian Premier League (IPL) commissioner Lalit Modi from London. Modi is facing a multiple agency probe in India. HT reports.

India has asked the United Kingdom to send back former Indian Premier League (IPL) commissioner Lalit Modi from London. Modi is facing a multiple agency probe in India.

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Modi had left for London almost two years ago, citing threats to his life. The departure coincided with the probes launched against him by the enforcement directorate (ED), the directorate of revenue intelligence (DRI) and the I-T department.

“We sent a note verbale (a semi-formal diplomatic communication) late last night, informing Britain that the passport of Lalit Modi has been revoked. He is required to be in India for questioning with regard to economic issues,” said ministry of external affairs spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin.

“I wish to clarify that my co-operation with the ED remains full and unequivocal. This has included five consecutive days of meetings with Indian I-T department representatives in London,” said Modi in a statement.

The ED has launched a probe against Modi on charges of violating various sections of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) by receiving or making payments in non-adherence to RBI guidelines. Modi has been issued many show-cause notices by the ED.

The DRI has summoned him with regard to the import of an aircraft by Golden Wings Private Limited. The I-T department is also investigating certain high-value transactions conducted by Modi.

Modi has attributed his inability to appear in person to the alleged threats to his life. “I have reiterated my willingness to co-operate with any further questioning… but it has been either ignored or refused,” he said.