The White House has acknowledged allegations against Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, chairman of the Adani Group, who has been indicted in New York for his alleged involvement in a multibillion-dollar bribery and fraud scheme. Addressing the media, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed awareness of the situation but deferred specifics to the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ).
“So, obviously, we’re aware of these allegations, and I would have to refer you to the SEC and DOJ about the specifics of those allegations against the Adani Group,” she stated during her daily briefing.
Strong US-India Partnership Remains Intact
Despite the allegations, Jean-Pierre underscored the resilience of the US-India relationship. “We believe that [the relationship] stands on an extremely strong foundation anchored in ties between our people and cooperation across a full range of global issues,” she emphasized.
The spokesperson expressed confidence that the two nations would navigate this issue without undermining their robust partnership. “We’re confident that we’ll continue to address this matter as we have with other challenges. This relationship has been built on a strong foundation,” she added.
Legal Charges Against Gautam Adani
The US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York recently unsealed criminal charges against Gautam Adani, his nephew Sagar Adani, and other executives. The charges link the Adani Group to an alleged bribery scheme, triggering significant scrutiny from global watchdogs.
Adani Group Refutes Allegations
In response, the Adani Group strongly denied the accusations, calling them baseless. In an official statement, a spokesperson for the conglomerate said, “The US Department of Justice and the US Securities and Exchange Commission allegations against directors of Adani Green are baseless and denied.”
The statement further reiterated that the charges are mere allegations at this stage. “As stated by the US Department of Justice itself, ‘The charges in the indictment are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.’ All possible legal recourse will be sought,” the group clarified.
Navigating a Delicate Situation
The allegations against Adani come at a time of strong collaboration between India and the US on global issues, including defence, technology, and climate change. Observers note that the case could test the diplomatic balance, but both nations are likely to prioritize maintaining their strategic partnership while adhering to legal due process.
While the allegations against Gautam Adani are serious, the White House has signalled its confidence in the ability of the US and India to handle the situation diplomatically. Both countries remain committed to their broader relationship, which continues to be grounded in shared values and strategic goals.
(With agency inputs)
