Lalit Modi, the controversial founder of the IPL, has faced legal issues prompting him to acquire Vanuatu citizenship, which has now been revoked by Prime Minister Jotham Napat following an Interpol alert request from India. Vanuatu’s citizenship is marketed as a privilege that requires legitimate justification, thereby complicating Modi’s legal standing and citizenship status.
Lalit Modi has emerged as a prominent yet controversial figure in recent Indian sports history, particularly known for founding the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008. His initiative significantly transformed the landscape of cricket, making IPL one of the world’s five most-watched sporting leagues. However, a slew of controversies and fraud allegations forced him to leave India in 2010, leading him to reside in London since then.
As of 2025, reports indicate that Lalit Modi has requested to surrender his Indian passport via the High Commission in London, with confirmation from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) that he has acquired citizenship of Vanuatu. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted, “We are also given to understand that he has acquired citizenship of Vanuatu. We continue to pursue the case against him as required under law.”
Vanuatu, an independent nation in the South Pacific, offers a citizenship program where wealthy individuals can obtain citizenship by making a substantial financial investment, approximately Rs. 1.3 crore. The process can be completed online within a month, and Vanuatu is also recognized as a tax haven due to the absence of various taxes, making it an attractive option for many.
However, following the acquisition of Vanuatu citizenship, Prime Minister Jotham Napat announced the cancellation of Lalit Modi’s passport. This decision was influenced by requests from Indian authorities for an Interpol alert, which was rejected due to insufficient evidence. Prime Minister Napat reiterated that Vanuatu’s citizenship is a privilege contingent upon legitimate reasons, stating, “Citizenship is a privilege and not a right. All applicants should present legitimate reasons for citizenship.”
With the revocation of both his Indian citizenship and Vanuatu nationality, Lalit Modi currently faces an uncertain future, being left without national allegiance. This controversy raises important questions regarding the implications of citizenship on legal proceedings and the responsibilities of nations in vetting those who seek their citizenship.
The recent developments surrounding Lalit Modi’s nationality highlight the complexities of citizenship in relation to legal issues. Having founded the IPL, his transition from esteemed figure to controversial individual illustrates the consequences of legal scrutiny. The actions by Vanuatu’s Prime Minister, coupled with Modi’s relinquished Indian citizenship, signify critical ramifications for individuals with pending allegations against them.
Original Source: www.bollywoodshaadis.com
