India Promises Humane Jail Conditions for Mehul Choksi if Extradited from Belgium

New Delhi: The Indian government has provided fresh assurances to Belgium that fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi, wanted in the multi-crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case, will be treated in accordance with international standards if extradited to India.

According to information shared with Belgian authorities, Choksi will be housed in Barrack No. 12 of Mumbai’s Arthur Road Jail. Officials clarified that the barrack is not overcrowded and will ensure humane conditions. He will be given a minimum of three square metres of personal space, excluding furniture, and his cell will be monitored round-the-clock.

The facility will include adequate lighting, ventilation, and storage space, along with a cotton mattress, pillow, bedsheet, and blanket. On medical grounds, a bed may also be provided. Authorities further assured that Choksi will have access to clean drinking water, proper toilets, and washing arrangements, as well as 24/7 medical care.

In line with prison guidelines, he will be allowed over an hour of daily exercise and recreation and will receive sufficient food during his detention.

Choksi, who was arrested in Antwerp earlier this year at India’s request, has been lodged in a Belgian prison since April. His bail application was rejected on the grounds that he could attempt to flee. The crucial extradition hearing is expected to take place in the second week of September.

The 63-year-old businessman has been evading Indian authorities since 2018, when he left the country amid the unfolding of the PNB fraud scandal.