Adani Group Denies Odisha Bribery Allegations

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has refuted allegations made by the US Department of Justice that Adani Group paid bribes to Odisha government officials for renewable energy contracts. The BJD clarified that the 2021 power purchase agreement was strictly between two government entities, Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) and Gridco, and did not involve any private parties, including the Adani Group. Former Odisha Energy Minister, Pratap Keshari Deb, emphasized the state's historical practice of procuring renewable energy from central PSUs like SECI and NTPC, labeling the bribery claims as baseless. Adani Group has also denied the allegations, asserting compliance with all laws and governance standards. The BJD highlighted that Odisha's power distribution is privatized and noted the state's lack of involvement in the agreements, which are approved by the Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission, an autonomous body.