Lalit Modi Public Apology Over Controversial ‘Biggest Fugitives’

New Delhi, December 30, 2025: A lavish birthday celebration in London has transformed from a social media boast into a diplomatic controversy for former IPL chairman Lalit Modi. On December 18, 2025, Modi hosted a grand party at his residence in London’s Belgrave Square to celebrate the 70th birthday of fellow businessman Vijay Mallya. The event was documented in a viral Instagram clip where Modi was observed introducing himself and Mallya as the “two biggest fugitives of India.” The video, captioned with the phrase “Let’s break the internet down in India again,” quickly drew intense criticism for appearing to mock the Indian legal system.

Retreat and Regret: The Official Apology

Following ten days of mounting backlash and a stern response from the Indian government, an official apology was issued by Lalit Modi on December 29, 2025. Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) account, the founding commissioner of the IPL expressed “deepest apologies” for his remarks. He was heard clarifying that his statement was “misconstrued” and was never intended to be played out in the manner it was perceived. Modi emphasized that he holds the “highest respect and regard” for the Indian government, attempting to distance himself from the viral “fugitive” label he had jokingly embraced just a week prior.

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Government Standpoint on Economic Offenders

The apology follows a significant diplomatic push by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Shortly after the video went viral, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal was heard reiterating the Indian government’s “full commitment” to ensuring that all economic fugitives return to face trial. It was noted by authorities that while there are “several layers of legalities” involved in extradition processes from the UK, the government remains in active talks with international partners. The viral video was cited by public commenters as an “open mockery of the state,” prompting officials to remind the public that legal proceedings against both Modi and Mallya are very much active.

A Decade of Legal Avoidance

The controversy has reignited discussions regarding the long-standing cases against the two businessmen. Lalit Modi has resided in the UK since 2010 following allegations of financial irregularities and money laundering related to the early years of the IPL. Similarly, Vijay Mallya fled to London in 2016 after his Kingfisher Airlines collapsed, leaving behind unpaid bank loans exceeding ₹9,000 crore. Both individuals have denied all charges of financial impropriety, but their luxurious lifestyles abroad continue to serve as a point of contention for Indian tax-payers and law enforcement agencies alike.

The Future of Extradition Efforts

As the year 2025 draws to a close, the focus remains on the judicial developments in the UK courts. While Mallya is believed to be on bail while a “confidential” legal matter—likely an asylum application—is resolved, Modi continues to navigate the complexities of international law. The “biggest fugitives” video has served as a catalyst for a renewed public demand for accountability. As we enter 2026, the Indian government’s resolve to bring these high-profile figures back to the country will likely remain a central theme in India-UK bilateral relations.