Washington:
In a significant move that could impact US-India relations, six US Congressmen have written to Attorney General Pam Bondi, criticizing the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) indictment of Adani Group officials as a “misguided crusade.” This development comes at a critical time, just ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the US, where bilateral relations will be a key focus.
The case in question involves allegations of a $265 million bribery scheme in India, which the Adani Group has vehemently denied. The Congressmen are questioning the DOJ’s jurisdiction and motives in pursuing this case, arguing that it could strain the strategic relationship between the US and India.
Main Body
Six Republican lawmakers—Lance Gooden, Pat Fallon, Mike Haridopolos, Brandon Gill, William R. Timmons, and Brian Babin—have demanded a thorough investigation into the DOJ’s indictment of Adani Group officials. The indictment, issued in November last year under the Biden administration, alleges that members of the Adani Group in India engaged in bribery of Indian officials. However, the lawmakers argue that this case should have been handled by Indian authorities rather than the US DOJ.
The lawmakers describe the DOJ’s action as a “misguided crusade” that risks harming the US-India relationship, a partnership that is crucial for both countries’ economic and geopolitical interests. They emphasize that there was no compelling reason for the DOJ to pursue this case, especially since it does not involve any direct harm to US interests.
The Adani Group has consistently denied all allegations, labeling them as baseless and unfounded. The Congressmen suggest that the indictment may have been politically motivated, influenced by external factors such as left-wing donors. They warn that such actions could deter future investments and harm US economic interests, as they discourage investors who have contributed significantly to the US economy.
The timing of this indictment is particularly noteworthy, coming immediately before President Donald Trump’s return to office. Trump has expressed a strong commitment to reviving America’s economic prosperity, and the economic relationship with India is seen as a vital component of this strategy. The lawmakers argue that pursuing this case could ultimately benefit China’s global ambitions, particularly through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), by eroding the US-India partnership.
In a related development, President Trump has signed an executive order to pause prosecutions under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), a move that is relevant to the Adani case. This order directs the DOJ to review current and past actions related to the FCPA and prepare new guidelines for enforcement.
The Congressmen have requested Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate the DOJ’s handling of the case and provide all relevant records. They argue that this “selective pursuit” by the Biden DOJ, despite knowing the potential outcomes, requires a thorough examination to uncover the truth.
