Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Oct 23: Fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi, wanted in connection with bank fraud cases amounting to Rs 13,000 crore, will be lodged in Mumbai’s Arthur Road Jail upon his extradition from Belgium, officials confirmed.

However, unlike regular prison cells, the barrack prepared for Choksi has been described as having hotel-like amenities, designed to meet European standards of prisoner management, Indian authorities informed the Belgian court.

According to photographs and documents submitted by Indian prosecutors, Choksi will be placed in one of two specially equipped cells in Barrack 12, which combines comfort with high-level security.

The cell receives ample natural light through three windows and five upper ventilators, while cross ventilation and three ceiling fans ensure a steady flow of air. Six tube lights have also been installed for adequate illumination after sunset.

For basic facilities, the cell includes a television set for news and entertainment, and an attached passage leading to a fully equipped toilet. Security personnel will be deployed round the clock, with the barrack featuring a steel-protected structure cleared of ground obstructions to ensure air and light flow. A wide corridor and walking area outside the barrack will allow inmates to take short strolls in the morning and evening.

The initiative comes under a Union Home Ministry directive to prepare at least one international-standard cell in each state to accommodate high-profile fugitives facing extradition from abroad.

Recently, a Belgian court upheld Choksi’s arrest at India’s request, rejecting his claim that the extradition process was politically motivated. The court also noted that Choksi’s references to poor jail conditions were based on Tihar Jail, not Arthur Road Jail.

The court further found no evidence supporting Choksi’s allegation that he was kidnapped in Antigua in 2021 on the orders of Indian authorities.