When Will Vijay Mallya Return to India?
Synopsis
UK businessman Vijay Mallya tells the Bombay High Court he cannot specify his return to India due to court restrictions in England. The High Court hearing raises questions about his intentions and the ongoing extradition process. Key legal battles unfold as Mallya fights his designation as a fugitive. Stay tuned for further updates!
Key Takeaways
Vijay Mallya unable to specify return to India.
Legal challenges include designation as a Fugitive Economic Offender .
Ongoing extradition process in the UK.
Next court hearing set for March 11 .
Significant financial losses attributed to Mallya.
Mumbai, Feb 18 (NationPress) UK-based entrepreneur Vijay Mallya informed the Bombay High Court on Wednesday that he is unable to indicate when he might return to India. He pointed to restrictions enforced by courts in England, which he claims prevent him from exiting the country.
This issue was addressed by a Bench consisting of Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Gautam Ankhad, concerning two petitions filed by Mallya. One petition disputes his classification as a “Fugitive Economic Offender” under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act (FEOA), while the other challenges a court ruling that formally labeled him a fugitive.
Senior advocate Amit Desai, representing Mallya, referenced Supreme Court rulings where writ petitions were entertained even when petitioners were absent.
He argued that the extradition process against Mallya is currently ongoing in the UK and that his client is aware of it but is unable to leave due to existing court orders.
However, the Chief Justice questioned Mallya’s willingness to appear before the court, noting that he seems to be relying on UK court orders without confirming whether those orders have been contested. The Bench indicated that such reliance cannot serve as an unqualified excuse.
The court instructed Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to respond to Mallya’s affidavit. It also requested Desai to provide a comprehensive affidavit documenting all statements made during the proceedings for the Union of India to respond appropriately.
Allowing three weeks for further actions, the Bench remarked that the petitions have been pending since 2019 and noted that no genuine efforts have been made for their prompt resolution. The next hearing is set for March 11.
According to the Finance Ministry, Mallya, the former promoter of Kingfisher Airlines, is among 15 individuals designated as Fugitive Economic Offenders as of October 31, 2025, allegedly causing losses amounting to thousands of crores of rupees to Indian banks.
Previously, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) informed the court that Mallya had submitted affidavits disputing the banks’ claims and was attempting to convert money laundering proceedings into recovery litigation. The agency further asserted that he only challenged the FEO designation after being declared a fugitive and when extradition proceedings in London were at an advanced stage.
Point of View
We acknowledge the complexities surrounding Vijay Mallya's case. While his legal challenges are significant, it is vital to uphold the principles of justice and due process. The ongoing extradition proceedings underscore the importance of accountability, particularly for individuals connected to financial misconduct. Our commitment remains with the nation and the pursuit of justice for all.
NationPress
9 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't Vijay Mallya return to India?
Vijay Mallya has stated that he is unable to return to India due to restrictions imposed by courts in England, which prevent him from leaving the country.
What is the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act?
The Fugitive Economic Offenders Act (FEOA) allows Indian authorities to declare individuals as fugitives if they are accused of economic offenses and evade the legal process.
What are the ongoing legal proceedings against Mallya?
Mallya is currently involved in extradition proceedings in the UK and has filed petitions challenging his designation as a fugitive in India.
When is the next hearing for Mallya's case?
The next hearing for Vijay Mallya's case is scheduled for March 11.
How much financial loss is attributed to Mallya?
According to the Finance Ministry, Vijay Mallya is alleged to have caused losses of thousands of crores of rupees to Indian banks.
