Rahul Gandhi, the former president of the Indian National Congress, has once again taken aim at the Adani Group, one of India's largest and most influential conglomerates.
During a press conference at the Congress headquarters, Gandhi alleged that the Adani Group was involved in financial irregularities amounting to ₹32,000 crore, a significant increase from the previously cited figure of ₹20,000 crore.
These allegations have stirred controversy and renewed discussions about corporate transparency and accountability in India.
Gandhi's assertions revolved around the intricacies of coal pricing, particularly concerning Adani's coal procurement from Indonesia.
According to Gandhi, the pricing dynamics of coal significantly change when it reaches Indian shores after being purchased abroad, notably in Indonesia.
This change, he claimed, results in a substantial profit margin that seemingly goes unchecked.
This differential, as per Gandhi, translates into a staggering ₹12,000 crore, which he alleges has been effectively extracted from the pockets of the Indian public.
These claims were initially reported in the Financial Times, London, a publication that Rahul Gandhi referenced during his press conference.
He expressed his disappointment with the Indian media for not giving more attention to this matter, despite its potential impact on India's economic landscape.
Gandhi also raised concerns about subsidies in various Indian states, particularly Karnataka, and preparations for subsidies in Madhya Pradesh.
He emphasized the rising costs of electricity for the Indian population and argued that the reported irregularities have exacerbated the financial burden on the common citizens.
His implication was that Adani Group's alleged actions are affecting not just the economy but also the livelihoods of ordinary Indians.
Notably, when questioned about Sharad Pawar's recent meeting with Adani, Gandhi did not accuse the veteran politician of any wrongdoing.
Instead, he suggested that the primary responsibility for protecting corporate interests rests with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
According to Gandhi, Sharad Pawar's role does not involve safeguarding the interests of conglomerates.
