Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused the Indian government of protecting billionaire Gautam Adani despite serious bribery allegations outlined in a U.S. indictment. Speaking outside Parliament on November 27, 2024, Gandhi called for Adani’s arrest after U.S. authorities alleged that he and his associates orchestrated a scheme to pay approximately $265 million in bribes to Indian officials. The alleged scheme aimed to secure solar power contracts, potentially generating $2 billion in profits over the next two decades.
Gandhi criticized the government’s inaction: “Hundreds of people are being arrested on tiny charges… the gentleman has been indicted in the United States for thousands of crores; he should be in jail.” He also accused the government of shielding Adani from accountability, arguing that expecting the billionaire to face the charges without external pressure is unrealistic.
The Adani Group has denied the allegations, asserting that neither Gautam Adani nor his nephew, Sagar Adani, have been charged under the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. However, they acknowledged facing securities fraud charges.
Gandhi’s remarks have intensified the political discourse in Parliament, where opposition parties demand a thorough investigation into the allegations by Indian authorities. The controversy adds to the mounting scrutiny surrounding the Adani Group and its ties to the government.
