A belgian court has rejected all claims made by fugitive diamond trader Mehul Choksi, one of the prime accused in the Rs 13,000-crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) loan fraud case. The court dismissed his allegations of threats to life, torture, denial of a fair trial, political persecution, and targeting based on religion or nationality, calling them “irrelevant” and “unsubstantiated.” Authorities said Choksi’s rights would be adequately safeguarded in India.

Jail conditions

The court reviewed assurances provided by the Indian government regarding Choksi’s detention and expressed satisfaction. According to submissions, he will be lodged in barrack no. 12 of Arthur Road Jail, which comprises two separate cells with private toilet facilities, spanning a total area of 46 sq m. Choksi will remain in judicial custody, rather than investigative custody, and will be moved only for medical reasons or court appearances. “The detention conditions and arrangements provided by India are sufficient to ensure that Choksi will not be subjected to violence, torture, or inhuman treatment,” the court noted, adding that his right to a fair trial will remain intact.