‘Shaking the internet again…’, Lalit Modi shares video with Mallya, calls them ‘India’s two biggest fugitives’; Bombay High Court asks key question

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): A video featuring Vijay Mallya and Lalit Modi, both wanted in India in economic offence cases, has gone viral on social media. The clip, reportedly recorded during Mallya’s birthday celebration, was shared by Lalit Modi on his social media account. In the video, Lalit Modi sarcastically refers to himself and Mallya as “India’s two biggest fugitives.”

Sharing the video, Lalit Modi wrote, “Let me shake the internet once again… especially for the media. Keep watching with jealousy.” The video also shows Vijay Mallya smiling alongside his partner Pinky Lalwani. Soon after being posted, the clip triggered widespread discussion in the media.

Mallya’s plea in High Court: “When will he return to India?”

Meanwhile, the Bombay High Court heard Vijay Mallya’s plea challenging the order that declared him a fugitive economic offender. During the hearing, the court directly asked Mallya’s counsel, “When will he return to India?”

The court observed that Mallya is currently outside the jurisdiction of Indian courts, which creates practical difficulties in hearing his petition.

ED’s stand: “Law cannot be challenged while staying abroad”

The matter was heard by a bench of Chief Justice Chandrashekhar and Justice Gautam Ankhad. Appearing for the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that a person living abroad should not be allowed to challenge Indian law. He also informed the court that Mallya’s extradition process is in its final stage.

Mallya’s lawyer claimed that a substantial portion of bank dues has already been recovered, but the court made it clear that criminal liability does not automatically end without appearing before the court. The next hearing in the case has been scheduled for February 12.