New Delhi, Dec 29 (NationPress) Former chairman of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Lalit Modi, issued a formal apology to the Indian government on Monday. This followed his controversial statement made in a viral video, where he labeled himself and liquor magnate Vijay Mallya as the two "biggest fugitives" in India, a remark that many interpreted as a jab at the nation.

In his post on X, Modi did not clarify the specific intention behind his apology.

"I sincerely apologize if I have caused any offense, particularly to the Indian Government, which I hold in the highest esteem. My statement was misinterpreted and was never meant to be taken as it was portrayed. I express my deepest regrets once again," he stated.

This apology came on the heels of a video showing Modi at Mallya's extravagant birthday celebration in London, which gained traction online last week. In the footage, Modi was heard declaring, "We are the two fugitives, the biggest fugitives of India."

Modi shared the video on Instagram with a caption that read, "Let me do something to break the internet again. Something for you all. Watch your hearts out with envy (sic)."

This post ignited a wave of criticism online, with numerous users accusing both Modi and Mallya of ridiculing the Indian government and its justice system.

In response to the uproar, Modi removed the video from his social media platform.

In a subtle response to the controversy, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reaffirmed India's commitment to ensure that individuals wanted by law will be returned to face justice.

"We are fully dedicated to ensuring that fugitives, who are wanted by law in India, are brought back to the country. We are currently in discussions with various governments, and processes are underway. In many of these cases, there are multiple layers of legal complexities involved. However, we remain steadfast in our goal of bringing them back to face trial in our courts," remarked MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

Both Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya, who face serious legal accusations in India, have been living in the United Kingdom for several years now.

Lalit Modi departed India in 2010 following allegations related to tax evasion, money laundering, and proxy ownership connected to the lucrative IPL.

The Enforcement Directorate has alleged that he manipulated the process of assigning IPL broadcasting rights in 2009 for kickbacks exceeding Rs 125 crore.

Vijay Mallya, the former chairman of United Breweries and promoter of the now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines, fled India in 2016 amid financial fraud allegations.

He faces accusations of defaulting on multiple bank loans, reportedly owing Indian banks approximately Rs 9,000 crore.

In 2019, Mallya was declared a "fugitive economic offender" by Indian authorities, a designation he has contested in the High Court.

The two prominent businessmen were last seen together in July at a lavish private event in London, where they were recorded singing Frank Sinatra's "My Way."

This karaoke night was hosted by Lalit Modi as part of his "annual summer party" and attracted over 300 guests.