Lalit Modi Apologizes After Controversial Video with Vijay Mallya

Lalit Modi's Apology Following Controversial Remarks

Lalit Modi has publicly apologized on social media after sharing a video where he was seen celebrating with fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya in London. In the video, they jokingly referred to themselves as the 'biggest fugitives of India,' which sparked significant backlash from the public. Modi took to his X account to express his regret for any offense caused, clarifying that his comments were misinterpreted and not meant to be taken as they were.

"I sincerely apologize if I have offended anyone, particularly the Indian Government, which I hold in the highest regard. My statement was taken out of context and was never meant to be perceived in that manner. I extend my deepest apologies once again," Lalit Modi stated in his post on X.

Public Outrage Over Viral Video

Earlier, Lalit Modi shared images and a video from Vijay Mallya's birthday party, captioning it as 'Lalit Modi's Glorious Evening for Vijay Mallya's 70th Birthday in London.' In the Instagram clip, he referred to both himself and Mallya as 'the two biggest fugitives of India,' which quickly went viral and drew sharp criticism online.

"Let's break the internet down in India again. Happy birthday, my friend Vijay Mallya," he added in his post.

Both individuals are facing allegations of financial misconduct in India, which they have denied.

Government's Stance on Fugitives

In response to the viral video, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reaffirmed the government's dedication to ensuring that fugitives wanted in India return to face justice. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that while there are complex legal processes involved, the government is actively working with various nations to facilitate the return of economic offenders.

"We are fully committed to ensuring that those who are fugitives and wanted by law in India return to the country. We are currently in discussions with several governments regarding this matter. Although there are multiple legal layers to navigate, our commitment remains strong to bring them back to face trial in our courts," Jaiswal stated.