Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi has issued a public apology after a video of him celebrating Vijay Mallya’s 70th birthday in London went viral. In the clip, Modi referred to himself and Mallya as “the two biggest fugitives of India,” sparking sharp reactions online.
Addressing the backlash on X, Modi said his statement had been misunderstood and was not intended in the way it was perceived. He added, “I apologise if I have hurt anyone feelings especially the Indian Government who I have the highest respect and regard for. The statement was misconstrued and was never intended to be as played out. Once again my deepest apologies.”
The video and accompanying posts showed Modi and Mallya at a private celebration, with Modi captioning one post: “Let’s break the internet down in India again. Happy birthday my friend Vijay Mallya.” Both men are facing legal cases in India related to alleged financial irregularities, which they have denied.
MEA Response
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reiterated India’s commitment to bringing fugitives back to face trial. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted that while the process involves multiple legal layers, efforts are ongoing. Union Minister of State Kirti Vardhan Singh also recently called for Mallya’s swift return to India.
Context:
The incident highlights the ongoing sensitivity around high-profile fugitives from India and public reactions to social media posts by individuals involved in legal controversies.