Days after the Ministry of External Affairs said India will try to bring back all economic offenders living abroad, former IPL chairman Lalit Modi released a public apology over a controversial social media video.
Modi, who has been living outside India, posted a statement on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday. In his message, he said he never meant to offend anyone, especially the Indian government.
He also said he respects the Government of India and that his words were misunderstood by people online.
“I apologise if I have hurt anyone’s feelings, especially the Indian Government, for whom I have the highest respect and regard. The statement was misconstrued and was never intended to be as played out. Once again, my deepest apologies,” he wrote.
Why Lalit Modi Is Apologising
The apology came after a video featuring Lalit Modi and fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya went viral on social media.
The clip was recorded at Vijay Mallya’s birthday party. In the video, Lalit Modi introduced himself and Mallya as “the two biggest fugitives of India”.
The video quickly spread online and triggered a strong reaction from users, many of whom accused both men of making fun of India’s legal system.
What Was Written in the Viral Post
Lalit Modi himself shared the video on Instagram. Along with the clip, he wrote, “Let’s break the internet down in India again. Happy birthday, my friend #VijayMallya. Love u.”
The caption further added to the controversy, as many people felt the post was mocking Indian authorities and victims of financial fraud.
Also Read: ‘We remain fully committed’: India Breaks Silence on Lalit Modi & Vijay Mallya’s Mocking Viral Video
Strong Public Reaction Online
Soon after the video was posted, social media users strongly criticised Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya. Many people accused them of proudly calling themselves fugitives and disrespecting the Indian justice system.
The backlash became intense, especially because the Indian government had recently repeated its promise to bring back all fugitives facing cases in India.
Lalit Modi Says His Words Were Misunderstood
In his apology, Lalit Modi claimed his statement was not meant to be taken the way it was shown online.
He said he never wanted to insult the government or anyone else. He also repeated that he holds the Indian government in high regard and deeply regretted how the video was interpreted.
With this statement, Modi tried to calm the anger that followed the viral clip.