Embattled liquor baron Vijay Mallya, wanted in India on charges of fraud and money laundering, has said he would “seriously consider” returning to the country – provided he receives a firm assurance of a fair trial and dignified treatment from Indian investigative agencies.
“If I have a fair assurance of a fair trial and a dignified existence in India, I will think about it seriously,” Mallya said during a podcast conversation with Indian content creator Raj Shamani. The interview marked one of his rare public appearances and suggested a possible softening of his position after years in self-imposed exile in the UK.
Responding to labels such as “fugitive” and “thief” often used against him in Indian public discourse, Mallya pushed back strongly. “You may call me a fugitive, but I didn’t run away. I left on a pre-scheduled visit. Yes, I didn’t return – but for reasons I believe are valid. So go ahead, call me a fugitive. But where is the ‘chor’? Where is the ‘chori’?” he said.
Earlier the same day, Mallya reiterated his long-standing claim that Indian banks have already recovered more than the amount he owed. “Banks have recovered Rs 14,100 crore against a debt of Rs 6,203 crore,” he stated, adding that he has been unfairly singled out, while other major defaulters have received more lenient treatment from financial institutions.
Mallya had made similar assertions in December 2024 and again in February this year, as he continues to fight extradition proceedings in the UK.
