Adani bribery allegations: More than a month after pledging action regarding US bribery allegations involving the Adani Group and the previous Y S Jaganmohan Reddy government, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has now adopted a cautious stance, stating that action requires substantial evidence and awaits the US case outcome.
During a press interaction in Vijaywada on Tuesday evening, Naidu said, “We can’t back out of contracts unless concrete proof is available. We will have to pay a stiff penalty. No action can be taken until concrete proof is obtained. We need more proof. Concrete action will be taken if proof is obtained. We are awaiting the outcome of the case in the USA.”
This marks his second public statement since the US bribery charges emerged in November. Previously, on November 22, he had addressed the state Assembly, describing the allegations as “damaging” and stating, “More facts are yet to come to light. The government is also thinking about what steps to take as facts are being unravelled as we speak. We will take stock of the situation, see what needs to be done, and will take action accordingly… If there is wrongdoing, action must be taken. That’s the only way to ensure the same mistake won’t be repeated.”
According to an ET report, the chief minister’s hesitation to act reflects the political implications, as taking action against Adani could strain relations with the BJP-led NDA government and appear supportive of Opposition criticism.
The allegations originate from US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) court documents, which suggest that Gautam Adani met Jagan Mohan Reddy in August 2021 following Andhra Pradesh’s reluctance to sign a power agreement with SECI.
The US Justice Department alleged that an unnamed state official was offered Rs 1,750 crore in kickbacks to facilitate power purchases from SECI. SECI had agreements with Adani Green Energy Limited for 4666 MW and Azure Power for 2333 MW, with Azure’s share later transferring to AGEL.
On Tuesday, Naidu referenced the “laddoo” incident involving adulterated ghee at Tirupati. “If I had to take action against Jagan on the SECI issue, this is a laddoo opportunity,” said Naidu adding, “It’s a question of credibility of the state government. I don’t indulge in vendetta politics. This is the difference between TDP and YSRCP.”
