In a decisive ruling, the UK High Court has dismissed fugitive businessman Nirav Modi's latest bid to block his extradition to India, citing robust assurances from New Delhi on his treatment in custody. The decision, delivered Wednesday, clears the final hurdle for the diamond merchant accused in the massive ₹13,000 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam.

Modi, arrested in 2019 and held in a UK prison since, sought to reopen his case after a similar block on another Indian fugitive's extradition over human rights fears. He claimed risks of torture and harsh interrogation by India's CBI and ED. However, judges praised India's September and December 2025 pledges—reinforced by a February 2026 diplomatic note—as "detailed and reliable," ensuring no questioning by those agencies. Prosecutors, supported by visiting Indian officials, argued these commitments carry diplomatic weight, making violations unlikely without international fallout.

The scandal erupted in 2018, with Modi and associate Mehul Choksi allegedly using forged Letters of Undertaking to fraudulently borrow billions, crippling PNB and exposing banking loopholes. Modi fled India beforehand, sparking a seven-year legal battle in the UK, including losses in 2022 appeals. This mirrors cases like Vijay Mallya, where strong assurances have swayed courts.

With no more UK appeals, Modi's transfer to India for trial now looms large. Indian agencies hail it as a major victory in chasing economic offenders, potentially speeding recoveries from the scam's proceeds. The ruling bolsters India's global image in extradition fights, though it spotlights ongoing debates on jail conditions. Updates expected soon as logistics finalize.