Speedy extradition: Shah asks CBI to coordinate with IB, NIA to frame SOP, Pg 6.

Key Highlights:

• Amit Shah directed the CBI to collaborate with the IB and NIA to create a SOP for extraditing Indian fugitives involved in terror, narcotics, and arms smuggling.
• The directive was issued at the National Security Strategies Conference-2025 held in New Delhi in July.
• The CBI has facilitated the return of 137 fugitives since 2020, with 27 brought back this year until September 5.
• Bharatpol, a digital portal launched by the CBI in January, streamlines the process of issuing Red Corner Notices by Interpol.

Detailed Insights:

• The SOP aims to expedite the extradition process through diplomatic channels in a time-bound manner.
• Amit Shah suggested preparing dossiers within a month and assigning dedicated teams of officers and advocates for continuous efforts to bring back fugitives.
• The extradition process involves three stages: Red Notice issuance, fugitive geolocation, and extradition through legal and diplomatic efforts.
• Bharatpol enhances international police collaboration, enabling effective tracking of crime, criminals, and proceeds of crime globally.
• A liberal approach to deportation processes should be adopted to ensure a mechanism for deporting criminals operating drug trades from abroad.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Extradition: The legal process where one country transfers a person to another country for criminal prosecution or punishment.
• Deportation: The expulsion of a foreign national from a country, typically due to immigration violations or criminal activity.
• Red Notice: An international alert issued by Interpol to locate and provisionally arrest an individual pending extradition.