Vijay Mallya appeared before a UK court that is hearing the extradition request from India on Tuesday, heightening expectations about the fugitive tycoon's return to the country. However, the court did not take a decision and deferred further hearing to 12 September.
However, as expected, the UK court cited prison conditions in India. Judge Emma Arbouthnot, who was hearing the money laundering and fraud charges against Mallya said the court wanted detailed videos of the prison where Mallya would be put up if he is extradited to India.
The judge said she wasn't happy with the photographs supplied by Indian authorities. "Can we shoot it during mid-day? I want to see some natural light, sunlight, whether the windows pick up any natural light," the judge said, DTV report.
The Westminster Magistrates' Court judge specifically said she needed a video of a man going in through the prison gates.
Meanwhile, Mallya denied charges of money laundering. He also told media outside the court room that he would pay up his dues in India if the courts orders so.
Earlier last week, the businessman on the run expressed his willingness to return to India and face the law. The liquor baron had fled the country after he failed to repay as much as Rs 9000 in loans from various banks.
India recently tightened the noose around Mallya by initiating action against him under the Fugitive Economic Offender Ordinance. Under this, his assets in the country are liable to be confiscated. The Enforcement Directorate also sought the confiscation of Mallya's assets worth around Rs 12,500 crore.
Mallya is living in his sprawling estate in Hertfordshire village of Tewin, with his long-time girlfriend Pinky Lalwani.
Prison conditions
During the hearing, Mallya's defence team had raised concerns over the prison conditions in India. His counsel submitted that prison cells had no natural light fresh air. In reply, India's representative said Mallya would be given a cell with fresh air and light, western-style toilet and clean bedding.
If Judge Arbouthnot approves India's extradition request, Mallya is entitled to file an appeal at the higher courts.
