No word on G-visa to Devyani Khobragade

WASHINGTON: More than 20 days after it was submitted by the UN, the US continues to review the visa application of Indian diplomat Devyani Khobragade which would give her full diplomatic immunity.

The unusual delay in granting Khobragade G-visa, which would prevent her from any further arrest, has raised the anxiety level among Indian officials as the next day of court hearing fast approaches in New York next week.

"We've received the paperwork. It's under review. I don't have any other details on it, or updates," State Department Spokesperson Jen Psaki told reporters.

Days after Khobragade was arrested on December 12 in New York on charges of visa fraud and misrepresentation, India transferred her to the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations, with the hope that she would get the necessary G-visa that would grant her full diplomatic immunity.

Her paperwork was processed immediately by the United Nations and was sent to the State Department on December 20.

The process normally takes a few days, but in this case it is into its third week now.

Khobragade, who is now staying in New York at the Permanent Mission of India, was released on bail of USD 250,000 and her passport is in possession of a New York court.

The case is scheduled for January 13. The State Department spokesperson said the legal piece is being managed by the Southern District of New York.

"We're, of course, in touch with the Indian government, but I don't have any other details beyond that," she said in response to a question.