NEW DELHI: Vijay Mallya, the prominent business figure, extended an uncommon public apology regarding Kingfisher Airlines’ downfall, whilst firmly rejecting theft accusations and explaining his absence from India.Making an appearance in a lenghthy four-hour podcast with Raj Shamani, Mallya accepted responsibility for the collapse of the airline that once represented his distinctive business approach and said, “I apologise to everyone for the failure of Kingfisher Airlines.”During the podcast, Mallya expressed willingness to consider returning to India under specific conditions. “If I have a fair assurance of a fair trail and dignified existence in India, I will think about it (returning to India) seriously.” Responding to financial wrongdoing claims, Mallya said, “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 are 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)?”
The erstwhile businessman faces allegations of defaulting on loans exceeding Rs 9,000 crore, provided to Kingfisher Airlines by several Indian banks. Since 2016, he has resided in the United Kingdom, contesting extradition proceedings. Although a UK court ruled for his extradition in 2018, Mallya continues to oppose his return to India, citing concerns about unfair treatment and trial by media.
