INSIDE-SCOOP: UK assures India full cooperation on extradition of Nirav Modi, Vijay Mallya

Union Home MoS Kiren Rijiju has held a meeting with his UK counterpart Baroness Williams and been assured the latter's full support over scam-accused billionaire diamantaire Nirav Modi and other financial fugitives.

As per sources, there is no confirmation just yet that Nirav Modi, wanted in connection with the $2 billion PNB Bank scam, has sought asylum in the UK, or that India has issued an official extradition request. However, as per the meeting between Rijiju and his UK counterpart, the latter has said that they will try to support Indian demands for all fugitives who are in the UK to be given back.

The UK doesn't want to be a safe haven for any corrupt individual, whether Indian national or otherwise, sources have said, adding that India has its (the UK's) full cooperation in the extraditions of Nirav Modi, Vijay Mallya and others.

Speaking about the meeting, Kiren Rijiju said:

"We spoke to the UK minister about Nirav Modi and Vijay Mallya. I had a very fruitful meeting and they have decided to give us their full support."

Rijiju also tweeted on the matter, writing: 

Aside from the Rijiju's meeting with the UK minister, sources have also said to Republic TV that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has sent a Red Corner notice request to Interpol over Nirav Modi.

The CBI has so far arrested 12 people - six from the bank and six from Modi and Choksi’s companies. All have appeared in court and been held in custody for further questioning.