The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has responded firmly after a controversial video featuring Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya surfaced online, triggering widespread outrage in India. In the clip, recorded during Mallya’s 70th birthday celebration in London, Lalit Modi is seen making a remark referring to the two as India’s “biggest fugitives.”
Addressing media queries on Friday, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the Government of India remains resolute in its efforts to bring back all individuals who are evading Indian law.
“The Government of India is fully committed to bringing back all fugitives who have fled the country. We are in continuous discussions with several countries, and our position is very clear — anyone wanted by the law will be returned to face trial,” Jaiswal stated.
Video from London Triggers Political and Public Backlash
The video, shared on December 23, was posted by Lalit Modi on his social media account and shows him standing alongside Vijay Mallya at a private birthday gathering in London. While recording the clip, Lalit Modi can be heard making a sarcastic comment, referring to himself and Mallya as the “two biggest fugitives of India.”
The post was accompanied by a caption seemingly aimed at provoking Indian audiences and the media, further intensifying the controversy.
VIDEO | Delhi: “The Government of India is committed to bringing back all fugitives who have fled the country and evaded the law. Discussions are ongoing with several countries in this regard, and I want to assure you that we are firm and fully committed to ensuring their… pic.twitter.com/f7wcs5kwrR
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 26, 2025
Who Are Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya?
Vijay Mallya, who turned 70 on December 18, has been living in the United Kingdom for several years. He is wanted in India in connection with fraud and money laundering cases related to loans taken by the now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines.
Lalit Modi, the former IPL chairman, has also been facing legal scrutiny in India and has remained overseas for years. The latest video is not the first to surface from the celebrations, with earlier clips showing glimpses of pre-birthday events held at Lalit Modi’s residence in central London.
In the video, Mallya is seen smiling alongside his partner Pinky Lalwani, adding to the public perception of defiance against Indian authorities.
India’s Stand Remains Unchanged
The MEA’s statement underscores India’s continued diplomatic and legal efforts to secure the return of fugitives through international cooperation and extradition mechanisms.
Officials maintain that despite delays and legal hurdles, the government remains determined to ensure that all those accused of serious financial crimes are brought back to India to face justice.