India is actively seeking global consensus among G20 nations to crack down on fugitive economic offenders and expedite the extradition process while recovering assets at home and abroad. Union Minister for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Jitendra Singh, emphasized this objective during an interview with Doordarshan News before attending the G20 Ministerial meet and the final meeting of the G20 Anti-Corruption Working Group.
Under India’s Presidency, the third and final meeting of the G20 Anti-Corruption Working Group is taking place in Kolkata from August 9-11, 2023. The gathering includes more than 154 delegates from G20 Members, 10 invitee countries, and various international organizations. The subsequent G20 Anti-Corruption Ministerial Meeting, chaired by Minister Jitendra Singh, will be held tomorrow.
Minister Singh recalled that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had outlined a comprehensive nine-point program to tackle fugitive economic offenders during the G20 Summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina. PM Modi stressed the importance of cooperation in legal processes such as freezing the proceeds of crime, promptly returning offenders, and efficiently repatriating ill-gotten gains.
Singh acknowledged that economic offenses pose significant challenges, particularly when offenders flee the jurisdiction of their home countries. While there is agreement among member states regarding the extradition of fugitive economic offenders and the recovery of assets, differing laws pose obstacles. However, a consensus is being formed to address this issue collectively and take joint action. The use of advanced technologies is also being explored as a means to combat this problem effectively.
In addition to discussing economic offenders, Jitendra Singh highlighted the opportunity provided by various G20 meetings held across different parts of India, including Jammu and Kashmir, the North-East, Union Territories, and popular tourist destinations. These gatherings not only showcased India’s proficiency in various sectors but also highlighted the country’s diverse culture and heritage.
India’s efforts to seek global consensus and extradite fugitive economic offenders and recover assets align with its commitment to combat corruption and strengthen the international legal framework. The focus on collective action and the utilization of advanced technologies demonstrates India’s dedication to tackling economic offenses effectively. Under India’s Presidency, the G20 meetings held in different regions of the country have further highlighted its achievements and rich cultural diversity.
