'Misconstrued': Lalit Modi Issues Apology Over ‘India’s Biggest Fugitives’ Remark in Video With Vijay Mallya

Former Indian Premier League chairman Lalit Modi has apologised after a video showing him alongside fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya at a private celebration in London sparked widespread backlash on social media.

The controversy erupted over a remark in which Lalit Modi referred to himself and Mallya as "India's biggest fugitives", a comment he later said was misconstrued.

As the clip went viral and criticism mounted, Lalit Modi issued a clarification on X, expressing regret and stressing that his words were not meant in the way they were interpreted.

Lalit Modi says remark was misunderstood

Responding to the outrage, Lalit Modi said the statement had been taken out of context and apologised for any offence caused. In his post, he also expressed respect for the Indian government.

"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," Lalit Modi wrote.

Viral birthday video triggers backlash

The row began after Lalit Modi shared photos and videos from Vijay Mallya's 70th birthday celebrations held in London. One of his posts described the gathering as a special occasion. "Lalit Modi's 'Glorious Evening' For Vijay Mallya's 70th Birthday In London," he wrote on X.

A video clip from the event, which circulated widely on social media, showed Lalit Modi and Mallya at a private party. In the clip, Lalit Modi referred to the two as "the two biggest fugitives of India". The caption accompanying the video read, "Let's break the internet down in India again. Happy birthday my friend Vijay Mallya."

The remarks quickly drew sharp reactions online, with many users criticising the tone and timing of the post.

Legal cases against Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya

Both Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya are facing cases in India related to alleged financial irregularities. Authorities have accused them of wrongdoing, allegations that both men have consistently denied. Their continued stay abroad has been a subject of political and public debate for several years.

MEA reiterates stand on fugitives

After the video went viral, the Ministry of External Affairs reiterated the government's position on bringing fugitives back to India to face trial. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the process involves complex legal procedures but stressed that efforts are ongoing.

"We remain fully committed that people who are fugitive and wanted by law in India, return to the country. For this, we are in talks with several governments and processes are on," Jaiswal said.

He added that while there are "several layers of legalities involved", the government remains committed to ensuring that those wanted by Indian courts are brought back.

Earlier last week, Union minister of state for external affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh also called for the swift return of Vijay Mallya to India.