The Indian government has responded after a video featuring Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya, in which the two referred to themselves as “the biggest fugitives of India,” went viral on social media and triggered sharp political and public reactions.

Official sources said the government remains committed to pursuing economic offenders through legal and diplomatic channels, reiterating that high-profile cases are being handled strictly in accordance with the law. Authorities emphasized that ongoing extradition efforts and asset-recovery proceedings are based on judicial processes and international cooperation, not public statements or social media commentary.

The video, reportedly recorded overseas, showed Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya in a casual setting, with Modi making the remark in a seemingly flippant tone. The clip quickly drew criticism across party lines, with many calling the comments provocative and disrespectful to India’s legal system and taxpayers affected by large-scale financial frauds.

Vijay Mallya has been residing in the United Kingdom since 2016 and faces charges related to fraud and money laundering linked to the collapse of Kingfisher Airlines. Lalit Modi has lived abroad for over a decade and is accused of financial irregularities during his tenure as IPL commissioner.

Government officials noted that extradition cases are complex and depend on foreign courts, evidence standards, and bilateral treaties. “The law will take its course,” a senior official said, adding that enforcement agencies continue to pursue all available legal remedies.

The episode has renewed debate over delays in bringing economic offenders back to India, even as the government maintains that sustained legal action—not rhetoric—will ultimately determine outcomes in such cases.