Days after the Ministry of External Affairs said India would work to bring back all fugitives living abroad, former Indian Premier League chairman Lalit Modi issued a public apology over a controversial social media video.

Modi, who has been living outside India for years, released a statement on Monday. He apologised for his recent posts and said he never meant to offend anyone, especially the Indian government.

Lalit Modi issues public apology

In a message shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, Lalit Modi said he holds the Government of India in high regard. He claimed that people misunderstood his remarks and circulated them in the wrong context.

“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.

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

Modi says posts were misunderstood

Lalit Modi stressed that his message was never meant to hurt sentiments. He said the way his statement appeared online did not reflect what he intended to convey.

He added that he respects Indian institutions and did not plan to create controversy through his posts.

Controversial video sparks backlash

The apology followed a video that showed Lalit Modi with Kingfisher Airlines founder Vijay Mallya. The clip was recorded during Mallya’s birthday party and later went viral on social media.

In the video, Lalit Modi referred to himself and Mallya as “the two biggest fugitives of India", which drew sharp criticism from viewers.

Instagram post draws strong reaction

Lalit Modi shared the video on Instagram with a caption that read, “Let’s break the internet down in India again. Happy birthday, my friend #VijayMallya. Love u."

Soon after, social media users reacted strongly. Many accused both businessmen of mocking India’s justice system and showing a lack of respect for the law.

Timing linked to government statement

The controversy gained more attention because it came soon after the Ministry of External Affairs said India would pursue the return of all fugitives living abroad.

As criticism intensified, Lalit Modi issued an apology and tried to clarify his position, saying his remarks were taken out of context and were never meant to offend the Indian government or the public.