Rahul Gandhi Calls for Adani’s Arrest After US Charges for Violating Indian and American Laws

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Rahul Gandhi Demands Adani’s Arrest After US Indictment for Fraud and Bribery

New Delhi: In a bold move on Thursday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi demanded the immediate arrest of industrialist Gautam Adani after he and his associates were indicted by US prosecutors for allegedly engaging in bribery and fraud. Speaking at a press conference, Gandhi raised serious concerns over the accusations, which allege that Adani and his associates paid bribes amounting to $250 million to Indian officials, violating both Indian and US laws.

“Why Is Adani Not Held Accountable?”
Gandhi’s remarks came in light of the US indictment, which accuses Adani of orchestrating a widespread bribery scheme to secure business advantages in both India and abroad. “It is now clear that Gautam Adani has broken laws in both countries. He has been indicted in the US, yet he remains free in India. Why is he not being held accountable?” Gandhi questioned, adding that the industrialist’s legal troubles should not be ignored by Indian authorities.

Congress’s Demand for a JPC Probe
Rahul Gandhi also reiterated his party’s demand for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) investigation into the allegations surrounding Adani’s business dealings. He stressed the necessity of transparency and accountability in uncovering any financial irregularities or improper conduct within Adani’s enterprises, which have garnered increasing scrutiny in the wake of the indictment.

“The need for a JPC inquiry is crucial. We must ensure that every transaction and every irregularity in the Adani group is fully investigated,” Gandhi stated.

Adani Denies All Allegations
Despite the severity of the accusations, Gautam Adani has vehemently denied the allegations, labeling them as “baseless” and claiming that they are part of a coordinated smear campaign aimed at tarnishing his reputation. His legal team is expected to challenge the indictment in US courts, insisting that the charges are without merit.

‘Adani Protected by Modi’: Gandhi’s Allegation
Taking aim at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gandhi accused the Prime Minister of shielding Adani due to their close political and business ties. “In India, Adani is untouchable because PM Modi shields him. While others face consequences for corruption, Adani roams free despite his involvement in a ₹2,000 crore scam,” Gandhi asserted, drawing attention to the controversial relationship between the two figures.

Gandhi further mocked the BJP’s slogan of “Ek hain, safe hain” (United, safe), stating that it holds true only for Modi and Adani, who, according to him, are “safe at the cost of the nation’s assets.”

Investigations Should Start With Adani
Responding to counter-claims from BJP leaders that the states mentioned in the US indictment were opposition-led at the time of the alleged bribery, Gandhi called for investigations to be conducted across all states. However, he insisted that the investigations must begin with Gautam Adani. “Arrest Adani, interrogate him, and let the trail lead wherever it may. Ultimately, the BJP’s funding nexus will be exposed, and PM Modi’s name will surface,” Gandhi said, indicating that the political and financial ramifications could extend far beyond Adani.

Pressure on Parliament and Government Accountability
Rahul Gandhi emphasized that he would persist in advocating for more scrutiny in Parliament. “This is not just about one individual; it’s about the exploitation of India’s resources for personal benefit. We will not allow this matter to be ignored,” he vowed, stressing his duty as Leader of the Opposition to ensure the issue is fully discussed and investigated in the country’s legislature.

Gandhi also called for the removal of Madhabi Buch, the head of India’s financial regulatory authority, suggesting that her position could influence the impartiality of any investigation into the Adani Group. “The PM’s support for Adani is evident, and this compromises the integrity of any inquiry,” Gandhi asserted, urging that regulatory processes be free from political influence.

Global and Financial Fallout
The US indictment has severely impacted the Adani Group’s business operations. In addition to the allegations of bribery, US prosecutors have accused the company of being involved in a $265 million fraud scheme. The legal action has already led to arrest warrants being issued for Gautam Adani and his nephew, Sagar Adani, prompting the involvement of foreign law enforcement authorities to facilitate their apprehension.

The fallout from the indictment has rattled Adani’s businesses, with shares in the Adani Group’s listed companies plummeting as investors expressed concern over the legal and reputational risks associated with the scandal. Adani Green Energy, one of the flagship companies of the conglomerate, was forced to cancel a $600 million bond sale due to the crisis, underscoring the severe financial repercussions that the indictment has brought about.

Political Tensions Escalate
Rahul Gandhi’s sharp criticism of the government and his call for accountability have added fuel to the already intense political debate surrounding the Adani Group’s business dealings and its links with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). As the scandal continues to unfold, the demand for justice and transparency is expected to remain a central issue in India’s political discourse.

The case also raises questions about the role of India’s regulatory bodies, the strength of its legal frameworks, and the potential consequences of high-profile political and business connections for the nation’s governance and transparency. With the US legal proceedings still ongoing and the political stakes high, the full impact of the Adani scandal may take months or even years to unfold, but it has already become one of the most significant corporate and political controversies in recent Indian history.

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