Vijay Mallya’s response to Lalit Modi’s birthday message comes amid ongoing legal challenges, as both men continue to face charges of financial misconduct and have become high-profile fugitives from Indian justice. Mallya’s comment that he and Modi had been “wronged” resonates with their shared narrative of being persecuted for alleged financial crimes.
Mallya’s statement follows his critical remarks about Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s claims in Parliament that the Indian banks had recovered ₹14,131.60 crore from him. This figure, Mallya contends, is more than double the ₹6,203 crore debt that the Debt Recovery Tribunal adjudicated. He has been vocal about questioning the legal basis for such a significant recovery, suggesting that the amount the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and banks have taken exceeds the legal debt and could warrant legal relief for him.
In his Twitter response, Mallya demanded clarification from the ED and the banks, stating that he would be entitled to seek relief unless they could provide a legal justification for the inflated recovery amount. This claim further underscores Mallya’s defiance against what he perceives as an unjust system targeting him unfairly.
Meanwhile, Lalit Modi’s birthday post reflects their camaraderie as fellow fugitives, each facing his own set of legal battles. Modi’s message, which wished Mallya well and offered words of encouragement, echoed the sentiment of resilience. Modi emphasized life’s “ups and downs” in his message but expressed hope that the coming year would bring peace and positive change.
Modi and Mallya have found refuge in the UK, fleeing India years ago amidst mounting legal issues. While Mallya faces charges related to the defunct Kingfisher Airlines and alleged money laundering, Modi’s troubles stem from the IPL’s financial irregularities. Despite their continued legal battles, both men maintain a defiant stance, claiming that the Indian government has wronged them.
The growing public feud between Mallya and Indian authorities and his exchange with Modi continues to draw attention to the broader issues of financial accountability, international legal jurisdiction, and the fight for justice both men are pursuing from abroad.