The Congress party on Thursday criticised the central government’s approach to bilateral ties with the United Kingdom, urging it to shift focus from the much-anticipated Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to what it termed a “Fugitive Transfer Agreement.” The remark was aimed at highlighting the government’s inability to secure the extradition of several high-profile fugitives who have taken shelter in the UK.
Congress national spokesperson Jairam Ramesh said that while trade partnerships are important, India's immediate concern should be the return of economic offenders who have defrauded Indian banks and escaped legal action. He cited names such as Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, and Mehul Choksi, who are currently facing extradition proceedings or are in legal limbo in the UK and other countries.
Ramesh stated, “What India needs more urgently than a Free Trade Agreement is a Fugitive Transfer Agreement with the UK. These fugitives have looted public money and continue to enjoy protection under legal technicalities abroad. The government has failed to bring them back despite repeated promises.”
He also questioned the Centre’s diplomatic strategy, suggesting that while it promotes economic deals, it has not shown equal urgency in strengthening legal cooperation mechanisms with countries like the UK. According to him, public confidence in the justice system is being eroded when powerful individuals accused of major financial crimes continue to live freely overseas.
India and the UK have been negotiating a Free Trade Agreement for several years, aiming to boost bilateral trade and investment. However, the extradition of economic fugitives has remained a contentious and unresolved issue between the two countries. Indian courts have issued multiple warrants and the Ministry of External Affairs has made formal requests, yet legal hurdles in the UK’s justice system have caused significant delays.
The Congress party’s statement reflects a growing frustration among opposition leaders over what they see as the government’s lack of progress in ensuring accountability for white-collar crimes. They argue that public trust in governance depends not just on economic policies but also on the rule of law and justice delivery.
Responding to these remarks, officials from the government stated that diplomatic and legal processes in extradition cases are often complex and take time. They maintained that the government continues to engage with the UK through formal channels and that all possible efforts are being made to bring fugitives to justice.
Political analysts believe that the Congress party is attempting to sharpen its criticism of the BJP-led government by combining legal accountability with foreign policy discussions. As the general election approaches, such narratives may gain traction, especially among voters concerned about corruption and financial irregularities.
In conclusion, the call for a Fugitive Transfer Agreement by the Congress party adds a new dimension to India’s diplomatic priorities. While economic agreements remain essential, the demand for justice and accountability from financial offenders continues to be a pressing issue in domestic politics.
