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Mallya's Plea Denied: Court Demands Return to India
23 Dec
Summary
- High Court refuses Vijay Mallya's video conference plea.
- Court demands Mallya's physical presence to hear his case.
- Extradition proceedings against Mallya are at an advanced stage.
The Bombay High Court has refused to hear fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya's petition via video conferencing, insisting he must return to India to participate in legal proceedings. The court questioned how criminal cases could be resolved without the accused appearing in person. The government strongly opposed Mallya's plea, highlighting that numerous fugitives abroad mock the Indian legal system by living comfortably and avoiding trial.
Mallya's lawyer argued that recoveries have exceeded the loan amount, but the court maintained that repayment does not absolve criminal responsibility. Mallya faces multiple petitions, including one challenging the Fugitive Economic Offender (FEO) law. The court instructed his lawyer to decide which petition to pursue, adjourning the case to February 12.
The government confirmed that extradition proceedings are advanced and Mallya should not use ongoing cases as an excuse to delay his return. The Enforcement Directorate is pursuing charges of bank fraud exceeding Rs 6,200 crore, with total liabilities around Rs 15,000 crore, arguing the FEO Act prevents offenders from evading justice abroad.
