The US State Department refused to comment on the political uproar in the Indian Parliament following the indictment of billionaire Gautam Adani in a US court over alleged involvement in a bribery scheme. The case, which has sparked a fierce political debate in India, was described as a “law enforcement matter” by State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller.

At a press briefing, Miller was asked about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s demand for Adani’s immediate arrest. He deflected the question, stating, “I would defer to my colleagues at the Department of Justice to speak to it.” The indictment against Adani and seven others, including his nephew Sagar Adani, has created a storm in Indian political circles.

Charges in a $265 Million Bribery Scheme

The US Department of Justice has charged Gautam Adani and his associates with participating in a $265 million bribery scheme. Key allegations include:

  • Conspiring to commit securities fraud and wire fraud.
  • Making false and misleading statements to secure investments from US investors and global financial institutions.
  • Engaging in bribery to facilitate one of the world’s largest solar energy projects.

The indictment also names executives and employees involved in the alleged scheme, including Ranjit Gupta, Rupesh Agarwal, and Cyril Cabanes, among others.

Disruptions in the Indian Parliament

In India, both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha witnessed disruptions as opposition parties, led by the Congress, attempted to bring attention to the charges against Adani. Proceedings were adjourned for the day on Monday amid heated exchanges.

Rahul Gandhi has called for immediate legal action against Adani, highlighting the indictment as a serious blow to India’s credibility on the global stage.

Adani Group Denies Allegations

The Adani Group has strongly denied the charges, labelling them as “baseless.” The company maintains that the allegations are part of an attempt to tarnish its reputation and undermine its business ventures.

Global Implications and Legal Proceedings

The unsealed indictment, presented in a Brooklyn federal court, details a complex web of alleged fraud, corruption, and obstruction of justice. It implicates not only Adani but also former executives and employees of a Canadian institutional investor.

Charges include:

  • Conspiracy to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA).
  • Efforts to obstruct investigations by the FBI and US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

The case underscores the heightened scrutiny of global financial transactions and corporate ethics, especially in the renewable energy sector.

Political and Economic Repercussions

While the US authorities continue their investigations, the indictment has amplified political tensions in India. The opposition sees this as an opportunity to question the government’s alleged favouritism toward the Adani Group, while the ruling party has largely avoided addressing the issue.

The legal proceedings in the US are likely to have significant implications for the Adani Group’s global operations and its standing in international markets.

(With PTI inputs)