Lalit Modi Issues Apology After ‘Biggest Fugitive’

New Delhi, December 29, 2025: A major social media storm was ignited this week following the release of a video featuring former IPL chairman Lalit Modi and business tycoon Vijay Mallya. On December 18, 2025, the duo was observed celebrating Mallya’s 70th birthday at Modi’s residence in London. In the clip, which was initially shared on Instagram with the caption “Let’s break the internet,” Modi was heard introducing himself and Mallya as the “two biggest fugitives of India.” The statement, intended as a humorous swipe at their legal status, was met with severe backlash from the Indian public and government alike.

“Highest Respect for Indian Government”

Following a stern reaction from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and a wave of public anger, an official apology was issued by Lalit Modi on December 29, 2025. Taking to the social media platform X, Modi claimed that his statement was “misconstrued” and never intended to mock the nation. He was heard stating that he holds the “highest respect and regard” for the Indian government and expressed his “deepest apologies” for any hurt caused. This shift in tone was observed by analysts as a strategic move amidst intensified efforts by Indian agencies to secure his extradition.

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The MEA Stance: Commitment to Trial

The apology follows a strong rebuttal from the Indian government regarding the viral footage. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal was heard reiterating that the government remains “firmly committed” to bringing back all economic offenders to face trial. It was noted by authorities that while the legal processes across multiple jurisdictions are complex and involve several layers, the resolve to hold fugitives accountable has not wavered. The viral video was cited by many as a “mockery of the Indian state,” prompting the government to restate its focus on international legal cooperation.

A Legacy of Legal Battles

The controversy has served as a reminder of the long-standing cases against both men. Lalit Modi has been residing in the UK since 2010 following allegations of financial misconduct and money laundering linked to the early years of the IPL. Similarly, Vijay Mallya, the former promoter of Kingfisher Airlines, left India in 2016 after defaulting on massive bank loans exceeding ₹9,000 crore. Both were declared Fugitive Economic Offenders under the PMLA Act, and their continued presence in London remains a point of friction between Indian and British diplomatic relations.

Public Trust and the Justice System

As the year 2025 draws to a close, this incident has highlighted the deep sensitivity surrounding high-profile economic crimes in India. While the “biggest fugitives” comment was presented as a joke among friends, it was viewed by the Indian public as an insult to the rule of law. The viral debate has focused on the perceived “audacity” of offenders living in luxury while evading justice. As we enter 2026, the focus remains on whether these legal battles will finally see a resolution in Indian courts or if the “fugitive” tag will continue to define their legacy.