US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, weighed in on the ongoing legal proceedings in the United States involving Gautam Adani and other executives from the Adani Group, who have been indicted in an alleged bribery case. When asked about the matter, Garcetti refrained from commenting directly, stating that the US has an independent criminal justice system, which operates differently from other countries.
Garcetti highlighted the strong and enduring partnerships between the US and India, particularly with Indian industrialists. He expressed confidence that these relationships would continue to thrive, especially in areas like capacity-building, as both nations work together on major infrastructure projects, such as factories and ports. He emphasized the importance of democratic-led industrial partnerships, both within India and in regions like Sri Lanka and East Africa, stressing the significance of promoting sustainable growth without falling into debt traps or autocratic systems.
The indictment of Gautam Adani, who leads one of India’s largest business conglomerates, has sparked controversy and raised questions about its timing. US Congressman Lance Gooden, in a letter to US Attorney General Merrick Garland, questioned whether the move was politically motivated, particularly in light of President-elect Donald Trump’s plans to revitalize the US economy. Gooden also questioned why the US Department of Justice pursued charges involving an alleged criminal act that occurred in India.
In response to the allegations, Gautam Adani, in a statement made in November, dismissed the charges, stating that despite the scrutiny, no Adani Group officials had been found guilty of any violations of the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) or conspiracy to obstruct justice. He stressed that the challenges the group faced only made them more resilient.
