Lalit Modi, the former chairman of the Indian Premier League and a renowned fugitive, has made headlines again. This time, not for his relationships but due to his shift in nationality. Lalit Modi has now become a citizen of Vanuatu, an island country in Oceania. To renounce his Indian citizenship, he submitted an application at the Indian High Commission in London. Let’s explore some distinctive features of Vanuatu, the new home of Lalit Modi.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal revealed that Lalit Modi has applied to surrender his passport at the High Commission. He stated, "Lalit Modi has submitted an application to turn in his Indian passport. This will undergo scrutiny as per regulations. Furthermore, we have learned that he has acquired citizenship in Vanuatu. His ongoing legal cases will continue as per the law."
A Must-Read: 'I am now a citizen of Vanuatu, have applied to surrender my Indian passport,' Lalit Modi asserts.
Why Did Lalit Modi Choose Vanuatu Citizenship?
Vanuatu, with a population of merely 300,000, operates a Golden Passport scheme where affluent individuals can easily obtain citizenship by paying approximately 13 million INR. Surprisingly, minimal documentation is required, and the entire process can be completed online in less than a month, even before setting foot in the country.
Another Insight: Lalit Modi's Family Feud Over 11,000 Crore Property, Son Alleges Mother Orchestrated Assault.
One major advantage of Vanuatu citizenship is the passport, which grants visa-free access to 120 countries including the UK and European nations. Additionally, Vanuatu is a tax haven, exempt from income, wealth, and corporate taxes. Notably, over the past two years, 30 wealthy Indians have sought Vanuatu citizenship, with Chinese applicants leading the trend.
Where is Vanuatu Located?
The Republic of Vanuatu is an island nation in the South Pacific Ocean. These volcanic-origin islands lie about 1,750 kilometers east of northern Australia. Furthermore, Vanuatu is positioned northeast of New Caledonia, west of Fiji, and near the Solomon Islands, southeast of New Guinea. The country is renowned for its natural beauty, vibrant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.
Lalit Modi Fled to the UK in 2010
Lalit Modi, who pioneered the IPL, fled India for the UK fifteen years ago. India continually demands his extradition, with legal proceedings ongoing. However, he now decides to relinquish Indian citizenship, adding a fresh twist as he opts for Vanuatu, a nation with a petite population smaller than Puducherry. Despite numerous accusations of money laundering and tax evasion, Modi staunchly refutes them.
