A court in Antwerp, Belgium, on Friday approved the extradition of fugitive Indian diamond merchant Mehul Choksi, rejecting his appeal and paving the way for his potential return to India. Choksi is wanted in connection with the ₹13,000 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case. The Belgian court’s decision is being viewed as a major diplomatic and legal victory for India.

Legal Avenues Remaining

Despite the setback, Choksi still has the right to appeal in a higher Belgian court. If he chooses not to appeal, or if his appeal is dismissed, the extradition process could begin. Officials familiar with the matter have indicated that an appeal is likely.

Background of Arrest

Choksi was arrested on April 12, 2025, by Belgian authorities acting on India’s extradition request. He is accused of embezzling ₹13,850 crore. At the time, he was living in Belgium with his wife, Priti Choksi, a Belgian citizen. Choksi had obtained a Belgian F residency card on November 15, 2023, and had previously acquired Antigua and Barbuda citizenship in 2017, shortly before leaving India in 2018.

Indian Government Assurances

India has assured Belgium that, if extradited, Choksi will be housed in barrack number 12 of Mumbai’s Arthur Road Jail. Authorities have promised clean water, adequate food, medical facilities, newspapers, television, and the option to consult a private doctor. He will not face solitary confinement.

Citizenship Controversy

Choksi has claimed in Belgian courts that he renounced Indian citizenship on December 14, 2018, after obtaining Antigua-Barbuda citizenship in November 2017. However, India disputes this claim, stating that he remains an Indian citizen wanted in connection with the massive PNB fraud.