The extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a key conspirator in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, marks a significant milestone for India in its pursuit of justice across borders. After losing his final appeal in the United States Supreme Court, Rana was brought to India and taken into custody. His return is a major diplomatic and investigative victory—but he is only one among many that India seeks to repatriate.
According to data from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India has submitted 178 extradition requests in the last five years, resulting in the successful repatriation of 23 individuals. Yet, many high-profile fugitives remain abroad, including those involved in terrorism, financial fraud, and organized crime.
Here are five key individuals India continues to pursue:
1. Anmol Bishnoi
The younger brother of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, Anmol is accused of supplying weapons in the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala and is also allegedly linked to the killing of NCP leader and minister Baba Siddique in 2024. Interpol issued a Red Corner Notice against him in 2022, and the NIA has announced a ₹10 lakh reward for information on his whereabouts. Though he was detained by U.S. immigration authorities in 2024, he claimed asylum in the U.S., complicating extradition efforts.
2. Arshdeep Singh Gill (Arsh Dalla)
The alleged head of the banned Khalistan Tiger Force, Dalla is involved in over 50 serious crimes, including murder, terrorism, and extortion. A Red Corner Notice was issued in 2022, and he was labeled a terrorist by the Indian government in 2023. He was detained in Canada after a shooting incident but remains outside India’s legal reach.
3. Satinderjit Singh (Goldy Brar)
Closely linked to Lawrence Bishnoi’s criminal network, Brar is also associated with the banned Khalistani outfit Babbar Khalsa International. He currently resides in Canada and features on the country’s list of 25 most-wanted criminals. Despite a Red Corner Notice and ongoing efforts by Indian agencies, Brar has not yet been extradited.
4. Nirav Modi
Diamond tycoon Nirav Modi is wanted in connection with the ₹13,000 crore Punjab National Bank fraud case. He was arrested in the UK in 2019 and faces multiple cases from the CBI and ED for fraud and money laundering. Though the UK Home Secretary ordered his extradition in 2021, Modi continues to appeal, citing mental health concerns and arguing he may not receive a fair trial in India. A recent bail plea was again denied due to his flight risk.
5. Sanjay Bhandari
Accused of tax evasion and money laundering, Bhandari has been in London since 2016. While the UK Home Secretary approved his extradition in 2023, the UK High Court recently refused India’s application to appeal the decision further, creating a legal roadblock for his return.
As India continues to strengthen diplomatic and legal channels, the focus remains on bringing these fugitives to justice. The recent success with Tahawwur Rana is a step forward—but the road ahead in securing the extradition of these individuals remains complex and challenging.
Sources By Agencies
