'Statement misconstrued': Lalit Modi reacts after backlash over video with Vijay Mallya; issue apology

A video showing Lalit Modi at Vijay Mallya’s luxury birthday party in London went viral last week. In the clip, Lalit Modi can be heard saying, “We are the two fugitives, the biggest fugitives of India.” He himself shared the video on Instagram with a caption that appeared to mock public reaction, saying it was meant to “break the internet.”

The video drew strong criticism online, with many users accusing the two of making a “mockery of the Indian government.” After the backlash grew, Lalit Modi deleted the video.

Reacting to the controversy, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that India remains firm on bringing back all fugitives who are wanted by law. Without directly naming Modi or Mallya, the MEA stressed that such individuals will be returned to India to face legal proceedings.