Billionaire Harsh Goenka Sparks Debate Over Vijay Mallya’s Case
Indian industrialist Harsh Goenka has stirred a wave of public discourse after extending support to embattled businessman Vijay Mallya, who has long been in the crosshairs of India’s legal and political systems. In a recent social media post, Goenka questioned the continued vilification of Mallya, suggesting that the former liquor baron has already repaid his dues.
“Vijay Mallya lived the high life, yes. Defaulted, yes. Unlike most others, his ₹9,000+ crore dues are now reportedly settled,” Goenka wrote, referring to reports of significant loan recovery. He further noted the selective nature of scrutiny, stating, “Bigger defaulters walk free with much fatter haircuts from banks. If dues remain, the banks should clearly say so. If not, why is he still a political punching bag? Justice must be fair, not selective.”
Goenka’s remarks come amidst a prolonged legal battle in India involving Mallya, who faces serious charges of financial fraud and money laundering, primarily linked to his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines.
Mallya Responds: Says ₹14,100 Crores Recovered, Questions Discrimination
Vijay Mallya responded swiftly to Goenka’s public backing, reiterating his long-standing claim that Indian banks have successfully recovered more than what he owed. In a reply to Goenka’s post, Mallya wrote, “Thank you, Harsh. The Union Finance Ministry has confirmed in writing that Banks have recovered ₹14,100 crores from me against a DRT [Debt Recovery Tribunal] judgement debt of ₹6,203 crores. Why the blatant discrimination?”
Mallya has consistently maintained that his liabilities have been settled, despite ongoing court proceedings in India and the UK. He has been living in the United Kingdom since 2016 after leaving India while facing multiple charges, including a ₹900 crore loan default involving IDBI Bank and alleged misuse of funds from various financial institutions.
Goenka acknowledged Mallya’s gratitude with a simple folded hands emoji, further fueling the online conversation.
Public Opinion Remains Split Over Mallya’s Legal and Moral Accountability
Goenka’s support and Mallya’s subsequent response have reignited public debate on social media, revealing a deep divide in opinion. Some users echoed Goenka’s sentiments, questioning why Mallya continues to be targeted if his financial dues have indeed been cleared. “I agree. I read that he has cleared all dues,” one user wrote, while another asked, “If true, then what’s stopping Vijay Mallya from returning to India?”
However, others emphasized the legal and ethical dimensions of the case, insisting that repaying debts does not absolve Mallya of the criminal charges he faces. “Repaying dues doesn’t erase Mallya’s crimes—₹900Cr IDBI loan fraud, money laundering, and fleeing justice in 2016,” one commenter said. Another added, “Justice isn’t selective; it’s incomplete until he faces court for his actions.”
As the debate continues, Vijay Mallya remains a controversial figure, symbolizing larger questions around corporate accountability, legal consistency, and the selective application of justice in India’s financial system.
