BJP asks Congress about opposition States' role in US charges on Adani Bribery

A major controversy erupted when US prosecutors accused Gautam Adani, his nephew Sagar Adani, and others of paying over $250 million in bribes to Indian officials between 2020 and 2024. The alleged payments aimed to secure energy contracts, potentially earning the Adani Group over $2 billion in profits. The allegations triggered sharp political debates in India, with opposition leader Rahul Gandhi accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of protecting Adani.

BJP defends against allegations

Responding to Gandhi’s remarks, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra dismissed the claims, asserting that Gandhi’s comments were an attempt to undermine India’s institutions. Patra highlighted that the states allegedly involved in the bribery scandal—Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Jammu and Kashmir, and Andhra Pradesh—were not governed by the BJP during the mentioned period. He argued this fact contradicted claims of BJP complicity in the alleged scandal.

Patra also emphasized that Gandhi and his family have been targeting PM Modi’s credibility for years. "The public knows who is credible and who is not," he added, accusing Gandhi of sensationalizing issues to attack the government.

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Rahul Gandhi’s allegations

In his statements, Gandhi reiterated his longstanding accusations of corruption against Gautam Adani and his alleged links to PM Modi. Referring to Modi's slogan "Ek hain to safe hain," Gandhi suggested that the Prime Minister and Adani's close association ensures their safety despite controversies. He added that the latest allegations from the US vindicate his previous claims about the Adani Group's misconduct.

Gandhi also referenced earlier concerns raised about investments in Congress-ruled states and demanded answers about Adani's business activities. He alleged that the Prime Minister’s relationship with Adani has damaged India's international image.

Patra countered by accusing Gandhi of working with international entities to harm India's reputation. Referring to figures like Ilhan Omar and George Soros, he claimed these associations targeted India’s economic interests. Patra also questioned investments made by Adani in Congress-led states and called for contempt of court proceedings against Gandhi for allegedly overstepping the judiciary’s role.

This heated exchange highlights the growing tensions between political parties, with both sides trading allegations while the legal process surrounding the Adani case continues.