Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, along with seven others, faces U.S. corruption charges. The allegations suggest that the Adani Group bribed officials, including those in Andhra Pradesh, to secure solar energy contracts. This scandal raises questions about political ties and transparency in large-scale public projects.
Key Allegations
The U.S. indictment accuses Adani and his team of paying $250 million (₹2,029 crore) in bribes. These payments were allegedly made to secure lucrative agreements under the Manufacturing Linked Project (MLP). Officials in Andhra Pradesh reportedly played a central role. One high-ranking official, identified as Foreign Official #1, allegedly received ₹1,750 crore ($228 million) between 2019 and 2024.
These bribes aimed to secure Power Sale Agreements (PSAs) with state electricity companies. Andhra Pradesh’s DISCOMs later agreed to purchase 2.3 GW of solar power—the largest procurement by any Indian state.
Adani’s Meetings with Andhra Officials
The indictment mentions several meetings between Gautam Adani and a high-ranking Andhra Pradesh official in 2021. These meetings allegedly paved the way for the PSA signed in December 2021. The timing has raised concerns about the integrity of the decision-making process.
Renewable Energy Projects Under Scrutiny
The charges have brought a ₹60,000 crore renewable energy deal into the spotlight. The agreement included a 10,000 MW solar power project and a 3,700 MW pumped storage hydropower plant. This project promised to create thousands of jobs and transform Andhra Pradesh’s renewable energy sector.
Now, questions about corruption overshadow these ambitious plans. Critics argue that favoritism may have influenced the state’s partnership with Adani.
Political Fallout
Opposition parties have seized on the scandal to criticize Andhra Pradesh’s ruling government. They allege that the state facilitated Adani’s deals through questionable means. Many are now calling for an independent investigation to ensure accountability.
The scandal also highlights the use of code names like “Numero Uno” and “The Big Man” for Gautam Adani. These details have further fueled allegations of political favoritism.
Adani’s Ongoing Troubles
This is not the first controversy to hit Gautam Adani. In 2023, Hindenburg Research accused the Adani Group of stock manipulation and fraud. These latest allegations add to the billionaire’s growing list of challenges.
What Lies Ahead?
The corruption charges put both Adani and the Andhra Pradesh government under intense scrutiny. Opposition leaders are expected to amplify their demands for transparency and accountability. For Adani, the scandal poses significant reputational and legal risks.
Conclusion
This case highlights the need for stricter oversight in government partnerships with private firms. As investigations continue, the political narrative in Andhra Pradesh and across India will likely intensify.
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