‘Statement Misconstrued’: Lalit Modi Apologises To Indian Govt After ‘Fugitives’ Video Sparks Row

Last Updated:December 29, 2025, 11:39 IST

The apology came after Lalit Modi and fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya appeared together in a video shared on social media, which quickly drew criticism.

Lalit Modi Issues Apology Over Controversial Post With Vijay Mallya. (Picture credit: AFP)

Days after the Ministry of External Affairs said India would work to bring back all fugitives, former IPL chairman Lalit Modi, who has fled the country, issued an apology on Monday for his recent social media posts.

In a message shared on X, Lalit Modi said he did not intend to hurt anyone’s feelings, especially those of the Indian government. He said he held the government in high regard and that his earlier statement had been misunderstood. He added that the post was never meant to be taken in the way it was portrayed and offered his “deepest apologies".

I apologise if I have hurt anyone feelings especially the Indian Government who I have the highest respect and regard for. The statement was misconstrued and was never intended to be as played out. Once again my deepest apologies— Lalit Kumar Modi (@LalitKModi) December 29, 2025

The apology came after a controversy involving Lalit Modi and fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya. The two, last week, appeared together in a video shared on social media, which quickly drew criticism. In the clip, recorded at what appeared to be Vijay Mallya’s birthday party, Lalit Modi introduced himself and Mallya as “the two biggest fugitives of India".

The video was posted on Instagram by Lalit Modi with a caption that said, “Let’s break the internet down in India again. Happy birthday my friend #VijayMallya. Love u." The post triggered strong reactions online, with many users accusing the two of mocking the Indian system.

Following the backlash, Lalit Modi attempted to clarify his position through his apology post. He said the remarks were “misconstrued" and were not intended to cause offence. 

However, he did not comment further on the video or the criticism surrounding it.

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