In a video that has stirred sharp reactions across India, former Indian Premier League (IPL) commissioner Lalit Modi has once again landed in controversy after referring to himself and liquor baron Vijay Mallya as the “two biggest fugitives of India.” The video, shared by Lalit Modi on Instagram, was reportedly filmed at a birthday celebration hosted in London for Vijay Mallya, who recently turned 70.
In the clip, Lalit Modi is heard saying, “We are the two fugitives, the biggest fugitives of India,” while laughing and addressing those present at the gathering. The remark, seemingly made in a light-hearted and provocative tone, quickly caught public attention, especially given the serious financial and legal cases both men face in India.
Sharing the video online, Lalit Modi captioned it with a message aimed at his critics, writing that he wanted to “break the internet again” and asked viewers to “watch your heart out with envy,” a line that further fuelled outrage and debate on social media platforms. Many users criticised what they described as open mockery of the Indian legal system, while others called for stronger efforts to bring economic offenders back to the country.
Vijay Mallya, the former head of now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines, is wanted in India in connection with loans amounting to thousands of crores of rupees taken from Indian banks. Lalit Modi, meanwhile, has been facing allegations related to financial irregularities during his tenure as IPL chairman.
The video has also revived discussions around extradition, accountability, and the perceived delay in bringing high-profile economic offenders back to India. Political leaders and commentators have weighed in, with some accusing the fugitives of showing “arrogance,” while others questioned how such individuals continue to live lavish lifestyles abroad.
As the clip continues to circulate widely, it has once again highlighted public anger over unresolved financial scandals and the long-running demand for justice in high-profile economic crime cases.
