MEA responds to Lalit-Mallya viral video
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday responded to a viral video featuring fugitive businessmen Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya, reaffirming that the Government of India remains firmly committed to bringing both individuals back to the country to face legal proceedings.
The video, which surfaced widely on social media platforms, was shared by former Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Modi. It shows the two men together at a private celebration in London marking Vijay Mallya’s 70th birthday. In the footage, reportedly filmed at Modi’s residence in London’s Belgrave Square, Lalit Modi is heard making a remark referring to himself and Mallya as “the biggest fugitives,” triggering laughter and drawing sharp criticism online for its flippant tone.
The clip sparked widespread outrage, with many questioning the apparent ease with which the two high-profile economic offenders were able to publicly socialise abroad despite facing serious charges in India. Both individuals have long been accused of financial irregularities and are subject to ongoing legal action by Indian authorities.
Addressing media queries on the matter, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that extradition proceedings are inherently complex and often involve prolonged legal processes across multiple jurisdictions. He stressed that India continues to actively pursue the cases through established legal and diplomatic channels. “Such matters involve lengthy judicial procedures and coordination with foreign Governments. The Government of India remains engaged with the authorities concerned, and the extradition process is ongoing,” Jaiswal said.
Lalit Modi, who is accused of financial misconduct linked to his tenure at the helm of the IPL, left India in 2010 and has since been residing abroad. Vijay Mallya, facing charges related to bank loan defaults and alleged financial fraud, departed India in 2016 and has been based in the United Kingdom. Indian agencies have been pursuing their extradition for several years.
The MEA reiterated that the public circulation of such videos does not alter the government’s position or efforts. Officials underscored that India remains determined to ensure that economic offenders are held accountable under the law, regardless of the time taken or the complexity involved.
The viral video has renewed public debate over the pace of extradition proceedings and the challenges faced by Indian authorities in bringing fugitive offenders back to the country. The Government, however, maintained that it will continue to pursue all legal remedies available under international law.
