Antwerp Court Takes Its Sweet Time on Mehul Choksi’s Extradition Drama

So Here’s What’s Happening

You know that feeling when you’re waiting for a verdict and it just… doesn’t come? That’s exactly where we’re at with Mehul Choksi’s extradition case. The Antwerp court just kicked the can down the road—no decision yet, next hearing in August. And let me tell you, this ₹13,000 crore bank fraud case isn’t just about money. It’s become this weird litmus test for whether India can actually get its financial fugitives back. The suspense is killing everyone—politicians, bankers, even your uncle who pretends to understand economics.

Mehul Who? The Man Behind the Mess

Okay, quick recap for those who’ve been living under a rock. Mehul Choksi—that diamond merchant guy who allegedly screwed over PMC Bank—vanished in 2018 right before everything blew up. Classic move, honestly. His nephew Nirav Modi (remember him?) got extradited last year, but Choksi? Oh, he gave us all a show—got caught in Dominica in 2021 after some half-baked escape attempt. The guy’s like a bad Bollywood villain who just won’t exit stage left.

Courtroom Drama: The Antwerp Edition

Here’s the thing—India wants him back, obviously. Money laundering, fraud, the whole shebang. But Choksi’s lawyers are playing the health card and crying “human rights violations.” Can’t blame them for trying, I guess. The court? Well, they’re taking their sweet time—August hearings now. Makes you wonder: is the case really that complicated, or are they just being extra careful because of the media circus? Either way, Choksi’s probably somewhere sipping tea and counting the days.

Why This Matters Beyond the Headlines

Let me put it this way—India’s track record with big-shot fugitives isn’t exactly stellar. Nirav Modi’s case dragged on forever. So if Choksi actually gets sent back? Huge win for the government. But here’s the kicker—some folks think the delay means India’s evidence might have holes. Others say European courts are just painfully thorough. Honestly? Could be both. That’s the frustrating part about these cases—nothing’s ever simple.

What People Are Saying (And Yelling)

Indian officials are putting on a brave face—”The evidence speaks for itself,” says one ED bigwig. Meanwhile, international media’s framing this as India’s credibility test on the global stage. And Twitter? Oh man, it’s a warzone. You’ve got the “hang him now” crowd versus the “he’s being persecuted” brigade. The court’s hesitation? Just poured gasoline on that fire.

What’s Next? Your Guess Is As Good As Mine

August could be make-or-break. If the court says yes to extradition, buckle up for more appeals and maybe an asylum plea—because Choksi’s not going quietly. If they say no? Embarrassing setback for India. But here’s the real talk—these white-collar guys always think they’re smarter than the system. Eventually, though? The system catches up. Might take years, but it happens.

The Bottom Line

While Choksi enjoys his extended European vacation, one thing’s clear—bringing back economic offenders is a messy, frustrating business. India’s determined, sure, but every delay makes you wonder if it’s worth the headache. For now? We wait. And maybe stock up on popcorn—this show’s not over yet.

Source: Hindustan Times – India News