Rahul Gandhi Criticizes PM Modi’s Stance on Adani Allegations
In a recent development, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has intensified his criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi concerning allegations against industrialist Gautam Adani. Gandhi accused the Prime Minister of “shielding” Adani by dismissing corruption allegations as a “personal matter.”
Gandhi’s Accusations Against PM Modi
Rahul Gandhi highlighted that Prime Minister Modi has remained silent on questions regarding Adani within India and has labeled the issue as a “personal matter” during his visit to the United States. He emphasized that even on an international platform, the Prime Minister defended Adani against corruption allegations.
Gandhi further criticized the Prime Minister’s actions, suggesting that Modi prioritizes the interests of his associates over national concerns. He stated that for Modi, enriching a friend equates to “nation-building,” while serious issues like bribery and the misappropriation of national assets are conveniently dismissed as personal matters.
PM Modi’s Response to Adani Allegations
During his recent visit to the United States, Prime Minister Modi was questioned about whether he had discussed the indictment of Gautam Adani with President Donald Trump. In response, Modi emphasized India’s democratic values and cultural ethos of considering the world as one family. He asserted that two prominent leaders of countries do not engage in discussions on individual issues, thereby dismissing the question regarding Adani.
Background on US Indictment of Gautam Adani
In November of the previous year, U.S. authorities filed charges against Gautam Adani, his nephew Sagar Adani, and several executives from the Adani Group. The allegations pertain to their involvement in a $250 million bribery scheme linked to solar power project contracts in India. The U.S. Department of Justice accused the group of securities and wire fraud, alleging that they misled U.S. investors about their anti-corruption commitments while engaging in bribery. The Adani Group has denied these allegations, labeling them as “baseless.”
Opposition’s Continued Critique
The opposition, led by Rahul Gandhi, has intensified its scrutiny of the BJP government concerning the Adani issue. The matter was prominently raised during the Parliament’s winter session last year, leading to multiple protests and walkouts by the INDIA bloc. Gandhi’s recent statements indicate a sustained effort to hold the government accountable for its associations and actions related to Gautam Adani.
This ongoing discourse underscores the deepening political divide over issues of corporate governance, corruption, and the perceived nexus between business and politics in India.
