India has taken a significant step regarding fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi. The government handed over photos of Arthur Road Jail's Barrack No. 12 to Belgian authorities. It is anticipated that Choksi will be held there after his extradition.
Available images show the barrack spans 46 square meters. It features two cells, a private toilet, and basic amenities. These pictures were provided by India to refute Choksi's claims about Indian jails being overcrowded and unsafe, with human rights violations.
Barrack No. 12: Choksi's Future Residence
According to documents, Choksi will be placed in Barrack No. 12 of Mumbai's Arthur Road Jail. This high-security facility once housed the 26/11 terrorist Ajmal Kasab. The Indian report states:
- The barrack includes two rooms and an attached toilet.
- Choksi will be taken out of the jail only for medical reasons or court appearances.
- His surveillance is under court jurisdiction, not investigation agencies.
- India assured the court of adherence to all human rights standards and medical facilities in the jail.
Source: aajtak
Choksi's Defense Dismissed in Belgian Court
Choksi's legal team argued in Belgian court that Indian prisons are in poor condition and judiciary operates without independence. The court rejected these claims, stating the submitted reports pertain to unrelated issues like Sikh activism or Tihar Jail. This does not prove any unjust treatment or torture in India.
The court further remarked that media coverage on large financial scams is common and doesn't signify judicial bias. Additionally, Choksi couldn't provide evidence that he wouldn’t receive proper medical treatment or would face inhumane treatment in India.
Source: aajtak
Official Assurance from India
The Indian government stated, 'Mehul Choksi will be kept only in Barrack No. 12 and taken out solely for medical or court purposes. He remains under Indian courts' jurisdiction, not investigation agencies.'
India also conveyed that Arthur Road Jail complies with international standards and provides all necessary facilities to inmates.
Expedited Extradition Process
Following the Belgian court's order, Choksi's extradition process is set to accelerate. The court quashed allegations of political persecution and human rights violations, affirming no legal impediments to his return to India.
