Lalit Modi issues apology over 'biggest fugitive' video amid controversy: Respect Indian government
PTC News Desk: Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi has issues an apology for his video showing him partying with fugitive Vijay Mallya in London and introducing themselves as 'the two biggest fugitives of India'.
"I apologise if I have hurt anyone's 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," Modi wrote on X.
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 Kumar Modi (@LalitKModi) December 29, 2025
Modi had shared the video on his Instagram account with the caption: “Let’s break the internet down in India again. Happy birthday, my friend #VijayMallya. Love u”, highlighting his camaraderie with Mallya. "We are the two fugitives, the biggest fugitives of India," Modi can be heard saying in the video as Mallya laughs along. The party was reportedly hosted by Modi at his residence in London's Belgrave Square to celebrate Mallya's 70th birthday.
The apology followed a controversy sparked by a video featuring Modi and businessman Vijay Mallya.
The Ministry of External Affairs raised strong objection over the remarks made by the fugitives and asserted that legal procedures are underway to bring back all the fugitives.
"We are committed to bringing back the fugitives, and we have been in touch with the countries for their return, and processes are on. As you know, many of these cases involve multiple layers of legal procedures," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.
Lalit Modi is facing charges of financial irregularities during the early years of IPL while Vijay Mallya is wanted in connection with financial fraud and laundering charges for the now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines.
- With inputs from agencies
