Nirav Modi's Legal Battle: A Prisoner's Struggle

Fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi, accused of fraud and money laundering, faces legal challenges and poor prison conditions in London. His trial, connected to a USD 8-million Bank of India debt, is adjourned to January 2026. Modi is also fighting extradition to India for multiple charges.

Nirav Modi, the fugitive diamond merchant sought on fraud and money laundering charges, confronts severe constraints in a London prison, sharing a tiny cell without access to crucial legal documents. The London High Court was informed of his plight on Friday, marking another chapter in his lengthy legal struggle.

Modi, 54, implicated in the USD 2 billion Punjab National Bank scam, was transferred between south London's HMP Thameside and HMP Pentonville for court proceedings related to a separate debt issue. During a pre-trial review, Modi's legal team sought to delay his USD 8-million Bank of India debt trial to January 2026, highlighting his dire need for preparation.

Justice Simon Tinkler expressed concern over Modi's limited access to past handwritten notes and adjudged an adjournment request until December 19. While Modi's barrister argued for a fair trial, Bank of India representatives opposed further delays, citing Modi's extradition to India. Modi observed the hearing from his prison cell, continuing his defense against multiple allegations.