INDIA today (4) asked Britain to ensure early extradition of businessman Vijay Mallya who faces cases of bank loan default by his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines.
India's home secretary Rajiv Mehrishi raised the issue of early completion of Mallya's extradition, during his talks in New Delhi with his British counterpart Patsy Wilkinson, the second permanent secretary in the Home Office.
Both officials also discussed the presence of Sikh militants in Britain, sharing intelligence and counter-terror cooperation between India and Britain.
Last month Mallya was arrested in London following an extradition request from India.
The flamboyant financier, who co-owns Formula One team Force India, appeared in a London court on April 18 and was granted bail.
Mallya fled India in March 2016 owing more than $1 billion after defaulting on loan payments to state-owned banks and allegedly misusing the funds.
India submitted an extradition request to Britain in early February after investigators demanded the 61-year-old be brought home to face charges.
India's junior finance minister Santosh Gangwar said the government would do everything in its power
to bring Mallya to justice.
Mallya, who now lives in a sprawling $15 million mansion in Hertfordshire, has denied absconding.
Dignitaries and officials gather on stage
Attendees fill the hall for the celebration