Former Indian Premier League chairman Lalit Modi has issued a public apology after facing widespread criticism over a viral video showing him celebrating with fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya in London. The video, which quickly spread across social media platforms, showed the two men referring to themselves as the “biggest fugitives of India,” a remark that triggered strong reactions from political observers, social media users, and government authorities.
The video was reportedly recorded at Modi’s residence in London’s Belgrave Square during celebrations for Mallya’s 70th birthday. Modi initially shared the clip on Instagram with a caption suggesting that it would “break the internet” in India. In the footage, Modi is heard making the controversial statement while Mallya laughs, a moment many viewers interpreted as mocking the Indian government and legal system.
Following intense backlash, Lalit Modi took to social media platform X to issue an apology. He stated that his remarks were never intended to insult or mock the Indian government and claimed that the statement had been misconstrued. Modi emphasised that he holds the Indian government in high respect and expressed regret for hurting public sentiment. His apology, however, did little to calm criticism, as many users continued to view the incident as an example of economic offenders treating serious allegations lightly while living abroad.
Social media platforms were flooded with reactions, with several users accusing both Modi and Mallya of openly ridiculing the Indian state. Critics argued that such behaviour highlights the challenges India faces in enforcing financial crime laws across international borders. Some commentators also questioned the political will and effectiveness of enforcement agencies in bringing high-profile economic offenders back to face trial.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs responded firmly to the controversy, reiterating that legal and diplomatic efforts are ongoing to secure the return of both individuals. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the government remains committed to pursuing all available legal avenues, while noting that such cases often involve complex and multi-layered international legal procedures.
Vijay Mallya is wanted in India on charges related to fraud and money laundering linked to loans taken for the now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines. Lalit Modi, meanwhile, continues to face allegations of financial misconduct and irregularities during the early years of the Indian Premier League, when he served as its chairman. Despite their public appearances abroad, Indian authorities maintain that due process is underway to ensure accountability under the law.
