Congress Targets Modi-Adani Relationship After Bribery Allegations Surface
In a fresh salvo against the central government, the Congress party has raised serious questions about the alleged nexus between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and industrialist Gautam Adani following bribery charges against the Adani Group. Gautam Adani, one of India’s richest businessmen, has been accused of paying $250 million in bribes, according to allegations investigated by US authorities.
Jairam Ramesh, the Congress communications in-charge, took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to demand answers from the government. He termed the allegations against Adani as indicative of an “intimate nexus” between the Prime Minister and his so-called favorite businessman.
US SEC Investigation Adds To Controversy
The controversy stems from the findings of the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which has accused the Adani Group of bribing foreign officials to secure business advantages. The SEC’s actions have cast a shadow on Adani’s business empire, which has grown exponentially over the years, often facing allegations of benefiting from favorable government policies in India.
Jairam Ramesh did not hold back in his critique, pointing out that while the US SEC is taking strong action, India’s own regulatory body, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), has yet to provide clarity on its investigations into the Adani Group. “The US SEC’s actions also cast poor light on how its Indian counterpart SEBI investigated violations of securities and other laws by Adani Group,” Ramesh wrote.
Congress Demands Accountability
The Congress party has consistently criticized the Modi government for its perceived favoritism toward the Adani Group. In a strongly worded post, Ramesh reiterated the need for a transparent investigation into the business dealings of the Adani Group, particularly its alleged close ties with the government. He questioned why Indian regulators have not been as proactive as their US counterparts in addressing allegations against the conglomerate.
The opposition party has further called for parliamentary discussions on the issue, seeking an independent probe into the financial dealings of Adani Group and its reported influence over government policies.
PM Modi’s Silence Under Scrutiny
Prime Minister Modi has so far remained silent on the allegations, which has further fueled speculation and criticism. Congress leaders argue that the PM’s silence speaks volumes about the proximity between the government and the Adani Group. “Why is the Prime Minister silent when his favorite businessman is facing such serious allegations? The people of India deserve answers,” Ramesh added.
Adani Group Denies Allegations
Meanwhile, the Adani Group has categorically denied the bribery allegations, calling them baseless and politically motivated. In a statement, the conglomerate claimed that it adheres to all regulatory and ethical guidelines in every country it operates in. The company also expressed confidence in resolving the issue through legal channels.
This, however, has done little to quell the growing chorus of criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups, who see the allegations as part of a broader pattern of crony capitalism under the current government.
Opposition Intensifies Pressure On BJP
The bribery allegations have provided fresh ammunition to opposition parties as they gear up for the upcoming general elections. The Congress party, in particular, has made the Modi-Adani relationship a central theme of its campaign, accusing the government of prioritizing the interests of a select few over the welfare of ordinary citizens.
Other opposition leaders have joined the chorus, demanding a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) investigation into the Adani Group’s dealings. They argue that a lack of transparency could undermine India’s regulatory credibility on the global stage.
Implications For Adani Group And Indian Politics
The ongoing controversy could have far-reaching implications for both the Adani Group and the Modi government. For Adani, the allegations could tarnish its reputation among international investors, particularly as it seeks to expand its global footprint. For the government, the issue could become a political liability, potentially eroding its credibility ahead of crucial elections.
The matter has also put a spotlight on India’s regulatory mechanisms, raising questions about their effectiveness in holding powerful entities accountable. Experts believe that a transparent and impartial investigation is crucial to restoring public trust in the country’s institutions.
Public Outrage Grows
The allegations have also sparked public outrage, with citizens taking to social media to demand greater accountability from both the government and the Adani Group. Many have called for stricter regulations to prevent corporate malfeasance and ensure a level playing field for all businesses.
As the controversy continues to unfold, all eyes will be on the government’s response and the outcome of investigations both in India and abroad. For now, the Modi-Adani nexus remains a contentious issue that could shape the political and economic narrative in the months to come.