Ensure extradition pleas are submitted timely, jail facilities meet global norms: MHA to states

The Ministry of Home Affairs has urged states and Union Territories to promptly process extradition requests for fugitives abroad, warning that delays by local law enforcement can jeopardize efforts to recapture them. This comes after the MHA highlighted instances where state police and investigating agencies have lagged in submitting provisional arrest or formal extradition requests within the required timeframe, potentially allowing fugitives to flee or be released due to foreign legal constraints.

India has recently recovered 274 fugitives from 36 countries since 2021, marking a significant increase in extradition and deportation activities. During a recent meeting with key officials, the MHA directed the establishment of prison facilities in central jails that adhere to international standards, and emphasized the need for extradition dossiers to be prepared in advance for cases involving Interpol Red Notices.

The ministry has also reviewed pending extradition matters, with some states hesitant to proceed in matters like matrimonial disputes, though these decisions remain undisclosed to the MHA.