Lalit Modi apologises for ‘2 Biggest Fugitives’ remark

In a swift retreat from a remark that reignited scrutiny of India’s most high-profile economic offenders, IPL founder Lalit Modi on Monday apologised for jokingly referring to himself and liquor baron Vijay Mallya as the “two biggest fugitives” of India, saying the comment was misunderstood and never meant to offend.

The apology followed the circulation of a now-deleted video from Mallya’s 70th birthday celebrations in London, where Modi was heard commenting in a light-hearted moment. The clip triggered sharp reactions online, coming just days after the Indian Government reiterated its commitment to bringing back economic

fugitives from overseas to face justice.

Issuing a clarification on X, Modi said, “I apologise if I have hurt anyone’s feelings, especially the Indian Government, whom I have the highest respect and regard for.”

He added that the statement had been “misconstrued and was never intended to be as played out,” before offering his “deepest” apologies.

Both Modi and Mallya have been living abroad for years while facing legal proceedings in India related to alleged financial irregularities-charges they have consistently denied. Indian investigative agencies are seeking Lalit Modi in connection with alleged money laundering and violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), 1999.

Vijay Mallya, the former owner of the now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines, is wanted in India on charges of fraud and money laundering linked to loans taken by the airline. He is believed to be out on bail in the United Kingdom and has resisted extradition, citing a “confidential” legal matter widely reported to be connected to an asylum application.

Mallya’s legal troubles in the UK have also intensified on the financial front. Earlier this year, a consortium of Indian banks led by the State Bank of India secured a court ruling in London upholding a bankruptcy order against him, tied to a judgment debt of about £1.05 billion owed by Kingfisher Airlines. In October, it emerged that Mallya had withdrawn an attempt to annul the bankruptcy order, clearing the way for the UK-appointed trustee to continue pursuing his assets to recover the debt.

Modi’s apology underscores the sensitivity surrounding cases of economic fugitives, even as Indian authorities continue to press for their return amid ongoing legal and diplomatic efforts.

Lalit Modi, a former cricket administrator and the founder of the Indian Premier League, left India in 2010 after probes were launched into financial irregularities linked to the league’s early years. He has remained abroad since. Vijay Mallya is believed to be out on bail in the UK and has continued to oppose his extradition to India while a “confidential” legal matter.

Lalit Modi, the former head of the Indian Premier League, left India in 2010 after investigations began into financial irregularities linked to the league’s early years. He has remained abroad since.