MEA vows to bring back India’s ‘two biggest fugitives’ after Lalit Modi, Vijay Mallya’s viral video
The Ministry of External Affairs has reiterated its commitment to bringing back India's "two biggest fugitives" after a viral video showed Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya mocking Indian authorities during a birthday celebration abroad. The MEA said discussions are underway with several countries and that, despite multiple legal hurdles, efforts will continue to ensure they face trial in Indian courts.
New Delhi: The MEA on Friday said that the ministry is fully committed to bringing back fugitives to the country to face trials by law. This comes days after absconder Lalit Modi shared a video, he and Vijay Mallya celebrating the 70th birthday of the latter.
Responding to the social media video, the MEA said that the Centre is discussing the matter with several countries in this regard. He added that there are multiple of legalities involved but we remain committed to bringing them back to the country so they can face trial before the courts here."
The two taunted the efficiency of the Indian government
The video which circulated on social media, featured Modi and Mallya, where Modi is captured mocking the Indian authorities and saying,"We are the two biggest fugitives from India."
"Let me do something to break the internet again. Happy Birthday my friend #Vijay Mallya. Love u". he added in the caption.
The viral video captured a lot of eyeballs. The birthday celebration hosted by Modi, reflected his opulence. The party was set at his lavish six-bedroom residence at Belgrave Square in London. The residence is situated at one of the most posh areas of the city. The event was also attended by many of his associates from India.
Why did the Modi-Mallya video grab attention?
The matter grabbed attention as both the fugitives are among the most wanted absconders of the country. Mallya, 70, was earlier the chairman of United Breweries and promoter of the now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines. Additionally , he also owned the Bengaluru franchise of the Indian Premier League. Mallya fled India in 2016 after allegations of fraud, loan defaults and so on. The Indian government declared him a "fugitive economic offender" in 2019. The businessman had defaulted on loans and owes banks in India approximately 9,000 crore.
Lalit Modi(62), fled from India in 2010 following allegations of large-scale tax evasion, money laundering and shady deals related to the Indian Premier League, which he had helped found. He was declared a fugitive economic offender in 2019.