Vijay Mallya Defends Actions, Expresses Regret Over Kingfisher Airlines Collapse

During a recent podcast, Vijay Mallya addressed the rise and fall of Kingfisher Airlines, expressing regret but denying any criminal intent. He indicated a willingness to return to India if assured of a fair trial. Mallya continues to contest allegations of financial misconduct amounting to ₹9,000 crore and his extradition requests, claiming he faces media bias and unfair legal treatment.

Vijay Mallya, the former chairman of Kingfisher Airlines, has made headlines recently for his remarks during a podcast interview where he expressed remorse over the airline’s downfall. In a four-hour discussion with entrepreneur Raj Shamani, released on Thursday, Mallya referred to the airline’s collapse and admitted to its symbolic connection to his extravagant business approach. Yet, he was quick to reiterate that the narrative surrounding his situation is overly simplified, and he maintains that he harbors no criminal intent regarding the airline’s failure.

Furthermore, Mallya, who has been living in exile in the United Kingdom since 2016, shared that he would contemplate returning to India if he could be guaranteed a fair trial and the ability to lead a dignified life. “If I have a fair assurance of a fair trial and dignified existence in India, I will think about it seriously,” he stated, demonstrating a willingness to engage with the Indian legal system, albeit under certain conditions.

On the sensitive topic of his status, Mallya addressed the allegations of financial impropriety firmly. He acknowledged the term “fugitive” but expressed frustration over being labeled as a “chor” — a thief. “You may call me a fugitive, but I didn’t run away. I flew on a prescheduled visit. Fair enough, I didn’t return for reasons that I consider valid… so if you want to call me a fugitive, go ahead. But where is the ‘chor’ (thief) coming from? Where is the ‘chori’ (theft)?” he explained, defending his actions amid ongoing scrutiny from the media and legal authorities.

Mallya is currently accused of defaulting on loans exceeding ₹9,000 crore that were provided by a consortium of Indian banks to Kingfisher Airlines. Despite facing multiple legal challenges, including a UK court ruling that favored his extradition in 2018, he continues to contest his return to India, arguing that he is subject to unfair treatment and media bias.

Vijay Mallya’s recent comments highlight his complex relationship with the downfall of Kingfisher Airlines and his ongoing legal battles. While he acknowledges the airline’s collapse, he emphasizes that he does not identify as a thief, instead expressing his discontent with the labels assigned to him. Mallya remains open to returning to India, granted that he receives fair treatment under the law. His accusations against the media and the legal proceedings against him add further layers to this contentious narrative.

Original Source: m.economictimes.com