New Delhi: In a fiery press conference, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi demanded the arrest of billionaire Gautam Adani after the Adani Group faced allegations of paying $265 million (approximately ₹21 billion) in bribes to Indian officials to secure lucrative solar energy contracts. The allegations were unveiled in a US investigation under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, which has also charged Adani and his associates with making false statements to secure over $3 billion in loans and bonds.
Gandhi criticized the Indian government for allegedly shielding Adani, asking, “Why is Adani roaming freely while Chief Ministers are jailed for corruption involving as little as ₹10-15 crores?” He claimed the US investigation proves that Adani violated both US and Indian laws, yet remains untouched in his home country. Gandhi accused the government of favoritism, emphasizing, “We are consistently raising this issue, but no action has been taken against him.”
Targeting SEBI Chief: Gandhi’s Sharp Allegations
Gandhi also targeted Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) chief Madhabi Puri Buch, calling her the “kingpin” of alleged scams involving Adani. He accused her of manipulating retail share prices to benefit Adani, warning that such practices could drive small investors out of the market. Gandhi stated, “My job as the Leader of the Opposition is to protect the common people, and that’s what I intend to do.”
Bribery Scandal: A Blow to Adani Group’s Reputation
The US indictment alleges that Adani and his associates promised over $250 million in bribes to Indian officials to secure contracts in the solar energy sector, which would yield billions in profits. The charges include lying to investors and banks while obstructing justice. Code names such as “Numero Uno” and “The Big Man” were allegedly used to refer to Adani in confidential documents.
US prosecutors, led by General Lisa H. Miller, stated, “This indictment accuses a scheme to pay millions in bribes, deceive investors, and obstruct justice.” The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has also filed charges against the Adani Group, compounding their legal troubles. Arrest warrants have reportedly been issued for Gautam Adani, his nephew Sagar Adani, and other associates.
Opposition Demands Government Accountability
On the same day these allegations emerged, Adani ironically congratulated India on its green energy initiatives, sparking backlash from the opposition. Gandhi questioned the government’s silence, accusing it of enabling corporate corruption while ordinary citizens face justice for minor infractions.
The Adani Group has yet to respond formally to these allegations, but the scandal has reignited debate over the nexus between big business and political power in India.
“India’s Political Storm: Will Gautam Adani Face the Music?”
The bribery allegations against the Adani Group have not only shaken the corporate world but also intensified political confrontations in India. With Rahul Gandhi’s persistent demand for accountability, the government faces mounting pressure to respond decisively to these international accusations.
