Allegations of Bribery and Fraud Surface Against Adani
In a significant political development, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has demanded the immediate arrest of industrialist Gautam Adani, citing findings from American investigations implicating the billionaire in a ₹2,000 crore scam. Speaking at a press conference in New Delhi on Thursday, November 21, 2024, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha accused Mr. Adani of violating both Indian and American laws. U.S. prosecutors have reportedly charged Mr. Adani, the chairman of the Adani Group, with bribery and fraud, intensifying scrutiny of his business practices.
“Mr. Adani has been indicted in the U.S., and yet he continues to roam freely in India. Why is this being allowed?” questioned Mr. Gandhi. He further alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is shielding the industrialist, stating, “The Prime Minister’s complicity in corruption with Adani is evident.” The Congress leader emphasized that the allegations against Mr. Adani are serious and warrant immediate action, including his arrest and a comprehensive investigation into his activities.
Adani’s Alleged Influence Over PM Modi
Mr. Rahul Gandhi did not mince words when accusing Prime Minister Modi of being under Gautam Adani’s influence. “Even if the Prime Minister wants to act against him, he can’t. He is under Adani’s control,” he alleged. The senior Congress leader claimed that Mr. Adani has exploited his connections to acquire India’s assets through questionable methods, a situation that he believes has compromised the country’s economic integrity.
Adding to his demands, Mr. Gandhi called for an investigation into the role of Madhabi Buch, the chairperson of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), accusing her of shielding Mr. Adani from legal scrutiny. “She has been protecting Adani, and this too must be probed,” he asserted.
The Congress leader also criticized the perceived inaction against the industrialist, stating, “This individual has blatantly violated laws, but the government is turning a blind eye because of its own involvement.”
Congress Pushes for JPC Investigation
Rahul Gandhi reiterated the Congress party’s demand for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to probe the allegations surrounding Adani’s transactions. He announced plans to raise the issue in the upcoming Lok Sabha session, emphasizing that the investigation must be comprehensive and extend across states, regardless of the ruling party.
“Our demand for a JPC stands firm. This investigation is crucial to uncover the extent of corruption and its impact on the country’s economy,” Mr. Rahul Gandhi stated. Taking a jibe at PM Modi’s “Ek hain to safe hain” slogan, he remarked, “As long as Adani and Modi are together, they are safe in India, but the nation suffers.”
The Adani Group has yet to respond to the allegations or the demands for an investigation. As the political battle over the issue escalates, the opposition’s focus remains on holding the government accountable and ensuring transparency in the country’s governance.
