The Bombay High Court observed that fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya was deliberately avoiding the process of the court and therefore could not seek equitable relief in a petition filed by him. A bench comprising Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Gautam Ankhad granted Mallya one final opportunity to clarify whether he intends to return to India and submit to the court’s jurisdiction.

Mallya has challenged the constitutional validity of the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act (FEOA) and the proceedings declaring him a fugitive economic offender. The court reiterated its earlier stand that his plea would be considered only if he physically returned to India. It noted that he had failed to file a compliance affidavit as previously directed.

Appearing for the Enforcement Directorate, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that Mallya challenged the Act only after being declared a fugitive and during advanced extradition proceedings in London. He maintained that Mallya was free to return and present his arguments but could not question Indian law while seeking relief from Indian courts.

The bench stated that unless Mallya submits to the court’s jurisdiction, his petition would not be heard. The matter is scheduled for further hearing next week