Fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi, wanted in India for his alleged role in the ₹13,000-crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud, told a London court that there will soon be “sensational developments” in his extradition case. The remark has sparked fresh curiosity about the next phase of the high-profile legal battle that has been ongoing for more than five years.

During the latest hearing at the Royal Courts of Justice, Nirav Modi appeared in person and informed the judge that he had prepared handwritten submissions highlighting new material and developments that, according to him, will change the course of his case. The businessman, who has been lodged in a UK prison since his arrest in March 2019, was representing himself in court.

Sources present at the hearing said Modi appeared confident and suggested that the upcoming proceedings could bring “major revelations.” He also requested the court to defer certain proceedings, citing health concerns including deteriorating eyesight and limited access to legal materials while in custody. However, the court declined to delay the matter, stating that all necessary provisions were being made to ensure he could effectively participate in his defence.

Nirav Modi’s legal battle began after Indian authorities sought his extradition over the multi-billion-rupee fraud involving fake Letters of Undertaking issued by PNB to companies linked to him and his uncle, Mehul Choksi. The UK Home Office had approved his extradition in 2022, but the process has since been delayed due to appeals citing mental health issues and prison conditions in India.

His statement about “sensational developments” has led to speculation about possible new evidence or a change in legal strategy. Some reports suggest Modi may be preparing to challenge the Indian government’s assurances provided to the UK, which guaranteed fair trial conditions and humane treatment upon extradition.

The next hearing in the case is expected to take place later this year, when the court will decide whether Modi’s appeal to reopen his extradition order can proceed. A final decision on his extradition will depend on whether the UK court finds India’s assurances satisfactory and whether Modi’s mental health concerns can be addressed adequately.

If extradited, Nirav Modi will face trial in India under charges of fraud, money laundering, and criminal conspiracy. The outcome of the next few hearings could determine whether one of India’s biggest financial fugitives is finally brought back to face justice.

Key Highlights:

• Nirav Modi tells UK court to expect “sensational developments.”
• The fugitive diamantaire has been in custody since 2019.
• India seeks his extradition over the ₹13,000-crore PNB scam.
• Court declines to defer proceedings despite his health concerns.
• Next hearing expected later this year in London.