Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi (SHP)

New Delhi, Jun 22: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has termed the counter affidavit submitted by Mehul Choksi to high court as a façade to escape jail time. The affidavit stated that Choksi is unable to return to India due to his health conditions.

In order to bring Choksi back, ED has stated that it would provide an air ambulance and a team of medical professionals. The agency is rather persistent on bringing the fugitive back to India from Antigua. On January 15, 2018, Choksi received citizenship of Antigua.

The central agency further said that Choksi never cooperated in the investigation in relation to the Rs 13,000 crore PNB scam. If inquiries and reports are to be believed, ED has stated that Choksi was planning to sell all his assets before fleeing from India. In a claim made by the agency, it was observed that Choksi’s assets worth Rs 6,129 crore have been seized. Besides, this claim is considered to be not so accurate as the approximation on the value of assets was placed at Rs 2,100 crore.

The ED had already issued a non-bailable warrant and also a Red Notice with the help of Interpol. At present, Choksi has shown his willingness to help with the investigation in the reported scam. Further, Choksi has also discarded the claims of him not being cooperative towards the investigation and said he will not be running away from the law. The diamantaire said he will return to India as soon as he is healthy enough.

Choksi is the maternal uncle of Nirav Modi, who also fled the country long time ago. Both the individuals were the key people accused of the PNB scam, which is estimated at USD two billion.