Hyderabad: In a bold move, the Telangana government has turned down a ₹100 crore donation from the Adani Group for the development of Young India Skill University. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy announced this decision during a press conference on Monday, citing the ongoing controversies surrounding the conglomerate. The CM emphasized that accepting the donation could damage the state government’s credibility and tarnish his personal reputation.
“Our government prioritizes transparency and accountability. Given the allegations against the Adani Group, we have decided not to proceed with the donation,” said CM Reddy. The government officially communicated its decision to the Adani Group on Sunday, requesting the cancellation of the fund transfer.
No Donations Yet Accepted for University Project
The Young India Skill University, envisioned as a hub for empowering youth through skill development, has received funding offers from several corporate entities. However, the state government clarified that it has not yet accepted any contributions from corporate groups, including the Adani Group.
Adani Group Under Scrutiny: Allegations of Fraud and Bribery
The decision comes amidst a storm of allegations against the Adani Group. In the United States, the Federal Court of New York is currently hearing a case involving fraud charges against Gautam Adani, his nephew Sagar Adani, and six other associates. The allegations include a multibillion-dollar scam and claims of bribery amounting to $265 million (₹2,200 crore) to secure solar energy contracts in India.
The case has taken a serious turn, with arrest warrants reportedly issued against Gautam Adani and Sagar Adani. The accusations also implicate entities like Adani Green Energy Limited and another unnamed firm. The Adani Group, however, has dismissed all allegations as “baseless,” stating that the charges are politically motivated and lack evidence.
Political Storm Intensifies Over Adani Controversy
The controversy has reignited political tensions, with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launching fresh attacks on the Adani Group and the central government. During a press conference on November 21, Gandhi alleged that the Prime Minister is shielding Gautam Adani from accountability. “Adani is involved in a ₹2,000 crore scam but continues to operate freely under the protection of PM Modi,” he claimed, pointing to the disparity in action between Indian and American authorities.
A Question of Ethics and Governance
The Telangana government’s rejection of the donation underscores its commitment to maintaining an ethical stance amidst a contentious national debate. Analysts view this decision as a significant political statement, reflecting the state’s unwillingness to align itself with entities embroiled in controversy.
The rejection of Adani’s ₹100 crore offer raises broader questions about corporate donations and the influence of big business in public projects. With the Young India Skill University still in need of funding, the Telangana government’s move sets a precedent for balancing development goals with ethical governance.
