‘Statement misconstrued’: Lalit Modi apologises to Indian govt over viral ‘fugitive’ remark

Former Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Kumar Modi has issued a public apology following backlash over his social media posts featuring fugitive Vijay Mallya at a birthday celebration in London.

In a post on X, Lalit Modi said he regretted hurting sentiments, particularly those of 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,” he wrote.

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Fugitives trivialise serious economic offences

The controversy erupted after Lalit Modi shared posts on December 18 celebrating Vijay Mallya’s 70th birthday at his residence in London. His posts included photos and videos showing him alongside Mallya. In one widely shared clip, Modi referred to himself and Mallya as “the two biggest fugitives of India,” a remark that quickly went viral and drew sharp reactions online.

“Let’s break the internet down in India again. Happy birthday, my friend Vijay Mallya,” one of the posts read, while another described the evening as a “glorious” celebration of the “King of Good Times.” The party was attended by friends and family who had flown in from across the world.

The self-referential comment labelling both men as fugitives sparked outrage on social media, with users criticising the apparent trivialisation of serious economic offences. The viral clip intensified scrutiny of both Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya, who are wanted in India in connection with financial irregularities.

An amazing celebration for my dear friend @TheVijayMallya at my house last night for all his friends and family who flew in from all corners of the world. Another cornerstone Achieved by the King of Goodtimes – his 70th birthday. Wish him all the happiness and success pic.x.com/x7FF2B70OB

— Lalit Kumar Modi (@LalitKModi) December 18, 2025

MEA reiterates stand on bringing back fugitives

Responding to queries on the viral video, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on 26 December reiterated the government’s commitment to bringing economic offenders back to India.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the process involves multiple legal layers but stressed that the government remains resolute. “We remain fully committed that people who are fugitives and wanted by law in India return to the country and face trial before the courts here,” he said.

Jaiswal added that India is in discussions with several governments and following due legal processes to ensure the return of fugitives, underlining that the government’s efforts would continue despite legal complexities.