BJP vs Congress over US department's move against Adani Group
The recent move by a United States government department to name the Adani Group in a case of alleged misconduct has sparked a political showdown between India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Congress. The allegations involve directors of Adani Green and accusations of bribery concerning power supply agreements. The group has rejected the claims as baseless and plans to take legal action.
Congress leader accuses government of collusion
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused the Narendra Modi government of colluding with the Adani Group, alleging violation of both Indian and American laws. He intends to raise the issue in the upcoming Winter session of Parliament, stressing on opposition unity on the matter. Reacting to Gandhi's allegations, senior BJP leader Amit Malviya noted that the allegations pertain to agreements with state electricity distribution companies in four states—Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh—all ruled by opposition parties then.
BJP questions Congress's role in alleged bribery
Further, Malviya questioned why Congress and its allies accepted bribes if they weren't involved. "All the States mentioned here were Opposition ruled during that time. So, before you pontificate, answer on the bribes the Congress and its allies accepted," Malviya said. He also noted an Indian Court can similarly accuse American firms of bribing US government officials to deny access to Indian markets.
BJP spokesperson accuses Gandhi of attacking Modi
BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra accused Gandhi of using this issue as a tactic to attack Prime Minister Modi and Indian institutions. Patra drew parallels with Gandhi's previous allegations during the Rafale deal controversy and criticized him for attempting to diminish Modi's credibility since 2002. The BJP also questioned the timing of the US report, suggesting it coincides with both an upcoming Parliament session in India and Donald Trump's potential return to power in the US.
BJP questions Congress's continued investments with Adani
The BJP reiterated that none of the states mentioned in the allegations were governed by them back then, pointing fingers instead at Congress and its allies. They also questioned why Congress governments continue seeking investments from Adani if they believe him to be corrupt. As tensions rise over these allegations, both parties remain firm in their positions, setting the stage for further debate in India's political arena.
