Investigating agencies are contemplating another FIR against fugitive Mehul Choksi on the allegation that he simultaneously held Indian citizenship and the nationality of Antigua.
The Indian nationals, who acquire foreign nationality, have to surrender their Indian passports within 90 days of getting the naturalisation certificate, even when they have not received a passport of that country, according to the rules.
MEA options
The Citizenship Act bars dual citizenship. Holding, or travelling on, Indian passport after acquiring the foreign citizenship is also an offence under the Passport Act and attracts penalties. The Ministry of External Affairs can lodge a complaint to report such alleged offences, seeking legal proceedings. “We have sought information on Mr. Choksi from the Antiguan authorities. As and when we receive an official confirmation that he illegally holds dual citizenship, a separate action will be initiated against him,” said a Central Bureau of Investigation official.
In response to media reports, Antigua’s Citizenship by Investment Unit has already issued a statement that the diamond merchant was granted its citizenship by registration in November 2017.
Published - July 26, 2018 11:03 pm IST
