New Delhi
The Indian government on Friday reacted to the recent charges leveled by the US Justice Department against the Adani Group and other related individuals. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal termed it a “legal matter involving private individuals and entities”. He said that the US government had not given any prior information to India in this matter, nor has any request been made for any summons or arrest warrant. Furthermore, the Ministry clarified that the Government of India is not a legal party in this matter in any way.
During the weekly press briefing, Randhir Jaiswal said, “Established procedures and legal methods are followed in such cases. “We were not given any prior information on this subject.” He clarified that there has been no discussion between India and America in this matter. Jaiswal also said that till now the Government of India has not received any request to serve any summons or arrest warrant in this regard. “Such requests are part of Mutual Legal Assistance and are examined on the merits of the cases,” he said.
US charges and indictments
The US Justice Department recently charged Adani Group’s Gautam Adani, Sagar Adani and Vaneet S Jain in an indictment. According to these allegations, he obtained contracts for solar energy projects by paying bribes of US$250 million to Indian officials. Also, lied about these bribes while raising funds from investors.
Indian government’s stance
The Foreign Ministry spokesperson said that this matter is entirely related to the US Justice Department and private individuals and institutions. He said, “The Government of India is not a party to any legal party in this matter. “We consider this a matter between the U.S. Department of Justice and private individuals and entities.” Experts believe that if India receives a request for legal assistance from the US, India will investigate it under its existing laws and procedures.