Assam Cong demands JPC probe into Adani-Azure solar power deal

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaNovember 22, 2024

The Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) has raised serious allegations against Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, linking him to a Rs 2,000 bribery scandal involving Adani Green Energy Limited.

The APCC allegations stem from accusations by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) that Gautam Adani and his associates engaged in bribery to secure high-priced solar power contracts across India between 2020 and 2024.

Addressing a press conference in Guwahati, APCC president Bhupen Kumar Borah claimed that the Assam government signed a 25-year MoU with Azure Power for the purchase of 90 MW solar power, allegedly benefiting Adani Green Energy Limited. The project, inaugurated in July 2022 with the Chief Minister present, involves the Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL).

Borah alleged that the state government plans to allocate 7,000 bighas of land in Baithalangso, West Karbi Anglong, which could indirectly benefit Adani.

The Congress accused the Sarma-led government of enabling high electricity prices, allegedly enriching Adani’s companies and funding BJP’s political activities.

“A 50% overnight hike in Indonesian coal prices was alleged to favor Adani Group operations, with benefits purportedly directed to Gujarat,” Boraah said.

He alleged that the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has failed to complete its investigation into Adani despite a Supreme Court deadline.

SEBI chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch was accused of financial ties with the Adani Group.

Borah further alleged that central investigative agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) target opposition leaders for minor allegations while shielding Adani from a Rs 2,000 crore bribery probe.

Borah, echoing Rahul Gandhi’s demands at the national level, called for a JPC probe into the Adani-Azure deal to ensure transparency and accountability.

The APCC highlighted the need to address potential loopholes in India’s regulatory and political systems exposed by the scandal.

The allegations raise concerns about governance, transparency, and the influence of corporate entities in political funding and policymaking. The Congress’s demand for a detailed inquiry reflects growing apprehensions about the Adani Group’s dealings and its alleged nexus with political entities.