Vijay Mallya Reflects on Kingfisher Airlines Collapse, Denies…

Vijay Mallya reflects on the collapse of Kingfisher Airlines in a podcast, expressing regret but denying criminal intent. He indicated possible return to India provided he receives fair trial assurances. Facing accusations of loan defaults exceeding ₹9,000 crore, Mallya contests extradition in the UK, citing unfair treatment and media scrutiny as factors in his decision.

Vijay Mallya, once known for his extravagant lifestyle and now regarded as a fugitive, has recently expressed regret about the demise of Kingfisher Airlines in a long podcast with entrepreneur Raj Shamani. During the conversation, released on Thursday, Mallya reflected on the airline’s collapse—a situation he believes is often oversimplified. Notably, he asserted that he had no criminal intent regarding the circumstances surrounding its failure.

Mallya also discussed the possibility of returning to India, contingent on receiving a fair trial and assurances of a dignified life. He stated, “If I have a fair assurance of a fair trial and dignified existence in India, I will think about it (returning to India) seriously.” His words suggest a hesitance, rooted deeply in his perception of the legal system’s treatment of him.

On the issue of his being called a fugitive, Mallya defended his actions, saying, “You may call me a fugitive, but I didn’t run away. I flew on a prescheduled visit.” He acknowledged not returning for reasons he deemed valid, but he challenged the label of “chor” or thief, questioning the basis of such accusations against him.

Mallya is facing serious allegations, including a massive loan default, totaling over ₹9,000 crore, connected to Kingfisher Airlines, which was funded by a consortium of Indian banks. Since 2016, he has been residing in the United Kingdom, while contesting extradition requests from the Indian government.

Despite enduring several legal challenges, including a UK court’s backing of his extradition to India in 2018, Mallya remains adamant. He argues that he has been subjected to unfair treatment and what he terms media trials, which he believes complicate his situation further. Meanwhile, the saga of Kingfisher Airlines continues to be a significant chapter in the narrative of Mallya’s decline.

Vijay Mallya’s recent podcast reveals his regrets about Kingfisher Airlines’ collapse but maintains that he denies any criminality in its failure. He indicated willingness to return to India, but only if assured of a just legal process. Mallya continues to contest serious allegations involving loans totaling ₹9,000 crore while living in the UK, claiming unfair treatment amid ongoing extradition proceedings.

Original Source: m.economictimes.com