The Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Court of Hyderabad has issued a non-bailable warrant against controversial business tycoon Vijay Mallya for failing to appear in court in alleged case of dishonour of a cheque of Rs 50 lakh to GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd. The counsel for the liquor baron will appeal to High Court next week against this order.
Meanwhile, in an email interview with the Sunday Guardian, the Bangalore-based businessman, who left India on March 2 amid Rs 9,000 crore loan default, said that he was “not on the run but was also in no hurry to return to India”.
“It wasn’t a business visit. Lots of people have written that I was carrying seven luggage bags.For two people, I don’t think that’s too much. I pack heavy. That’s how I travel.”
“It’s not the first time I’ve flown out from the country. I’ve not done anything wrong. I don’t need anyone to tip me off about anything,” he added.
Portraying himself victimised, Mallya claimed that he had done nothing wrong.
“Why am I being portrayed as a criminal? Loan defaults are a business matter. When the banks give out loans, they know the risk involved. They decide, we don’t.”
“Our own business was flourishing, but plummeted suddenly. Don’t make me the villain. I have the best intentions. I’m quiet because I fear my words will be twisted like of others.”
Mallya said that although he wanted to return to Indian but he felt lt was not right time to come back.
“But I’m not sure I’ll get a fair chance to present my side. I’ve already been branded a criminal. I do not feel the time is right.”
“I’ve seen the highest to the lowest points in this matter. But I hope that I return one day. India has given me everything. It made me Vijay Mallya.”
Slamming media for reporting “lies” about him, he said, “It’s a big agenda that some people are pushing against me. I am being victimised. And if people are doubting the integrity of bank employees, then why point the finger at me?”
“I’ve never hidden any aspect about my life. I’m one of the most open people. I’m forced to go into hiding, and that makes me sick.”
He did not disclose his whereabouts or any immediate plan. He said, “I do not think it is wise for me to reveal my whereabouts. I’m no hardened criminal who the authorities need to hunt. For now, I want to feel safe.”
Tags: Vijay Mallya
