Nirav Modi’s Extradition Appeal Delayed: London Court Hearing Postponed to March 2026

London: Fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi’s appeal against extradition has been postponed, with the next hearing now scheduled for March 2026. The decision came after Indian authorities provided “concrete assurances” regarding Modi’s custody in Mumbai. If the appeal is rejected during the hearing in March-April 2026, his extradition to India could proceed.

Background of the Delay

Modi had requested the UK High Court to reconsider his extradition appeal. The hearing was deferred following assurances from Indian officials concerning his detention in Mumbai. During proceedings, it was revealed that a confidential legal procedure—believed to be a “protection application”—may have failed in August. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), representing the Indian government in the Punjab National Bank fraud case, argued that Modi’s application to reconsider the extradition appeal emerged immediately after this confidential process reportedly concluded.

Current Status

Nirav Modi was presented via video link from Pentonville Prison in North London. The upcoming two-day hearing in March-April 2026 will be crucial. If the court dismisses his appeal, the path for his extradition to India will likely be cleared, enabling Indian authorities to bring him back to face charges related to the massive PNB fraud.

Related