Prime Minister Narendra Modi avoided directly addressing a question about the bribery and fraud charges filed against Indian billionaire Gautam Adani by U.S. prosecutors, a move that has sparked sharp criticism from the opposition. During a joint press briefing with U.S. President Donald Trump, PM Modi was asked whether the allegations against Adani were discussed during their bilateral meeting. In response, the Prime Minister dismissed the question, stating that such individual matters are not typically topics of discussion between two national leaders. He further emphasized India's inclusive cultural philosophy, asserting, "India is a democracy and our culture is 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'—we consider the whole world as one family. I believe every Indian is mine. And when it comes to such personal matters, two leaders of two countries will not get together on the topic and discuss anything on an individual matter."
The opposition was quick to attack him for sidestepping the issue, arguing that his refusal to address the allegations suggests a deliberate effort to shield Adani. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused the Prime Minister of evading the matter not only within India but also on an international platform. He remarked that while Modi remains silent on the issue at home, he conveniently dismisses it as a "personal matter" abroad. Gandhi further alleged that the Prime Minister is covering up corruption and protecting Adani from legal repercussions. He claimed that Modi’s actions reflect a deeper nexus between the government and big businesses, where national policies are shaped to benefit select industrialists.
Trinamool Congress MP Saket Gokhale also joined in, stating that Modi’s body language during the press conference revealed his unease when the question on Adani was raised. According to him, the Prime Minister appeared visibly flustered and irritated, reinforcing the perception that he was avoiding a crucial topic. Gokhale also pointed out that PM Modi has never conducted an unscripted press conference in India, accusing him of stage-managing his interactions with the media to avoid tough questions. He remarked that Modi was forced to face an independent press in the U.S., something he has successfully avoided for over a decade in India.
The opposition has been consistently alleging a close relationship between Modi and Adani, accusing the government of favoring the billionaire’s business empire through policies and contracts. The demand for a parliamentary probe into Adani’s dealings has intensified, especially after the indictment of the businessman, his nephew, and several associates by U.S. authorities. The case involves accusations that Adani and his team agreed to pay approximately $265 million in bribes to Indian government officials to secure lucrative solar energy contracts. U.S. prosecutors have alleged that the payments were concealed through falsified records and manipulated financial statements, ultimately misleading investors.
The charges, which were filed under the administration of U.S. President Joe Biden, have been categorically denied by the Adani Group. The conglomerate has dismissed the allegations as baseless, claiming that they are part of a politically motivated attack aimed at damaging the company’s reputation. The controversy took a new turn when President Trump announced a halt to the enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, a regulation that played a key role in Adani’s case. This move has led to speculation about whether the investigation against Adani will be weakened under Trump’s policies.
As the debate over the allegations continues, the issue has reignited discussions in India about corporate influence over governance and the need for greater transparency in business dealings. Opposition leaders argue that the Modi government’s unwillingness to address the charges against Adani raises serious concerns about accountability and ethics in public office. With mounting political pressure and increasing public scrutiny, the calls for an independent investigation into the Adani controversy are expected to grow louder in the coming days.
