Adani allegations: Resilience amid renewed US pressure on India’s growth

From the editor’s desk

The recent bribery allegations against the Adani Group by US authorities have revived suspicions, especially given the historical backdrop of similar charges that have previously failed to hold up under scrutiny. Much like the widely criticized Hindenburg report from last year, these new allegations appear to be founded more on conjecture than concrete evidence. In fact, no substantial proof has emerged to validate these claims, leading many to question the true motivations behind these recurring attacks on Adani. Adani, a conglomerate that plays a crucial role in India’s infrastructure and green energy push, stands as a pillar of the country’s economic vision—one that seeks selfreliance, innovation, and global competitiveness. So, when allegations surface repeatedly, it’s vital to look beyond the surface and understand the broader context. This is not the first time that such charges have been levied against Adani, and it’s certainly not the first time these allegations have surfaced at a crucial juncture in India’s rise on the world stage. The timing of these charges inevitably raises questions about their true intent, especially when considered alongside the ongoing geopolitical tensions between India and the US.

India’s foreign policy, which includes strengthening its ties with Russia and pursuing a pragmatic approach towards China, has long been a point of friction with Washington. The US has consistently sought to influence India’s choices in these areas, with attempts to sway its stance on issues related to both Russia and China. In this context, the new allegations against Adani can be viewed as part of a larger strategy aimed at applying pressure on India—economically and politically—at a time when the country is asserting its autonomy and forging independent paths in international relations.

India’s relationship with Russia, in particular, has been a cornerstone of its strategic policy for decades. From defense to energy to space cooperation, Russia remains an irreplaceable ally. Meanwhile, India’s recent efforts to improve relations with China, despite the challenges, reflect its commitment to regional stability and economic growth. Yet, these independent policy decisions are not always in alignment with the strategic interests of the US, which has historically sought to influence global dynamics to its advantage. In this light, the accusations against Adani are not just a corporate issue, but a tool to exert pressure on India’s broader foreign policy choices. Despite the baseless nature of these charges, the Adani Group continues to contribute significantly to India’s growth. Adani’s investments in renewable energy, infrastructure, and mining have created jobs, driven innovation, and helped India emerge as a competitive force on the global economic stage. This is why the renewed attacks on Adani, while concerning, cannot be allowed to overshadow India’s greater vision for itself.

These allegations should not detract from the undeniable fact that Adani continues to play a key role in realizing India’s developmental goals, as it works to reduce its reliance on foreign imports, promote sustainable energy solutions, and build infrastructure that will support the nation’s long-term ambitions. Moreover, these charges must be recognized for what they are— part of a broader geopolitical strategy that seeks to keep India from fully realizing its potential. By targeting high-profile Indian companies like Adani, there is an attempt to weaken the nation’s economic momentum, which is intrinsically linked to its political sovereignty. Adani’s resilience in the face of such allegations is a reflection of India's own determination to carve its path, independent of external pressures.

While allegations against Adani deserve a fair and thorough investigation, the persistent pattern of baseless accusations must be seen as more than just corporate missteps. The broader implications of these attacks are clear: they are an attempt to slow down India’s rise, disrupt its economic self-sufficiency, and undermine its global standing. Just as India continues to engage with Russia and seeks improved relations with China for strategic reasons, it must also defend its economic giants like Adani, who play a vital role in the country’s future. India’s path to economic and political autonomy should not be derailed by external interference, no matter how cleverly disguised it may be.