NEW DELHI - India's Parliament faced disruptions for the third consecutive day as opposition parties protested the government's silence regarding allegations against billionaire Gautam Adani. Adani, recently indicted in the U.S. for fraud and bribery schemes, has been accused by opposition members of being protected by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration.
During a session led by Speaker Om Birla, opposition members vocally opposed the government, leading to adjournments in both houses of Parliament. The Congress party is demanding a joint committee to investigate Adani's diverse business interests, which span agriculture, renewable energy, coal, and infrastructure.
Adani, 62, was charged in New York with securities fraud and conspiracy, with allegations that he misled investors in a solar project by concealing bribery facilitation. The indictment claims a scheme involving approximately $265 million in bribes to Indian officials.
The Adani Group has labeled the U.S. allegations as unfounded, asserting that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. The absence of a statement from the Indian government has led to interpretations of support for Adani by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party.
The controversy has impacted Adani's international dealings, with Kenya's president halting multimillion-dollar agreements for airport and energy projects. Additionally, Sri Lanka is reviewing its investment plans with the Adani Group, which were set to exceed $440 million for wind power development. Bangladesh is also reassessing its electricity supply agreement with Adani.