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Ex-IPL boss Lalit Modi forced to apologise as 'biggest fugitives' remark backfires

Akshita Patel

Lalit Modi faces backlash for 'fugitive' remark [Source: @NewsAlgebraIND, @udaysinghkali/X.com]Lalit Modi faces backlash for 'fugitive' remark [Source: @NewsAlgebraIND, @udaysinghkali/X.com]

Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi has issued a public apology after a video of him partying with fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya in London went viral and sparked widespread outrage in India. 

The controversy began when Modi posted a video and photos on social media from Mallya’s 70th birthday celebrations in London. 

Lalit Modi apologises after boasting ‘fugitive’ tag

In one of the clips, Lalit Modi jokingly introduced himself and Vijay Mallya as the “biggest fugitives of India.” 

The remark quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing sharp criticism. As the backlash grew, Lalit Modi took to X (formerly Twitter) to clarify his statement and express regret. 

He clarified that his statements were misinterpreted and were never intended to upset anyone, particularly the government of India.

"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 Modi posted on X. 

Earlier, Lalit Modi had shared posts describing the evening as a glorious celebration for Vijay Mallya, even saying the clip was meant to break the internet down in India. 

However, the attempt at humour did not go down well with many, given that both men face serious legal cases in India related to alleged financial irregularities. Both have consistently denied the charges against them. 

Lalit Modi was banned from IPL over financial irregularities

IPL was founded by Lalit Modi back in 2008, and he assumed the role of its chairman. The league has now become the world's biggest and richest T20 cricket league.

He played an important part in the structuring, auction, and commercial format of the league, turning cricket into an entertainment sport. However, his tenure was marred by serious controversies.

By 2010, charges of financial irregularities, impropriety, and conflict of interest were brought against Modi, and this led to his suspension and departure from the BCCI and IPL authorities.

In 2013, the BCCI banned Lalit Modi for life from holding any cricket post due to serious misconduct and breach of board regulations.