PM Modi on Gautam Adani Bribery Case

During his visit to the United States, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was asked whether he discussed the bribery allegations against businessman Gautam Adani during his meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump. Responding to the questions, PM Modi stated that the leaders of two nations never discuss personal matters, emphasizing that “Every Indian is mine.”

PM Modi said, “India is a democracy, and our culture follows the principle of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’—we consider the entire world as one family. I firmly believe that every Indian is mine. The two leaders of our countries never discuss such personal issues.”

What Are the Allegations?

Under President Joe Biden, the U.S. Department of Justice has accused Gautam Adani of allegedly being involved in a scheme to bribe Indian officials with over $250 million (approximately ₹2,100 crore) in exchange for favorable terms on a solar energy contract. This information was reportedly concealed from U.S. banks and investors from whom the Adani Group raised billions of dollars for the project, leading to allegations against Adani.

What Did Donald Trump Do?

Just days after assuming office as the 47th President of the United States, Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the Department of Justice to halt the enforcement of a nearly half-century-old law used to investigate the Adani Group.

The order signed by Trump instructed the Attorney General to review the guidelines and policies governing investigations and enforcement actions under the FCPA (Foreign Corrupt Practices Act) within 180 days.

He stated, “During the review period, the Attorney General will halt the initiation of any new FCPA investigations or enforcement actions unless the Attorney General determines that an individual exception should be made.”


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Gautam Adani’s Reaction to Bribery Allegations

Responding to the alleged bribery and fraud charges against the Adani Group, Gautam Adani acknowledged the legal challenge posed by the U.S. Department of Justice but emphasized that this was “not the first time” the group had faced such scrutiny.

He remarked, “Most of you must have read about the compliance-related allegations against Adani Green Energy in the U.S. two weeks ago. This is not the first time we have faced such challenges. What I can tell you is that every attack makes us stronger, and every obstacle becomes a stepping stone for the Adani Group.”