Bhupesh Baghel Blames Centre for Adani Power Plant Transfers Amid Bribery Allegations

Former Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Bhupesh Baghel, has dismissed allegations made by the BJP regarding his involvement in the Adani Group's alleged bribery case. Speaking on Thursday, Baghel accused the central government of transferring key power plants in the state to the Adani Group during the tenure of BJP’s Raman Singh-led state government.

The controversy follows charges filed by US prosecutors against Gautam Adani and associates, accusing them of paying over $250 million (around ₹2,100 crore) in bribes to Indian officials to secure lucrative solar power contracts. The allegations, which reference four Indian states—Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh—have sparked a fierce political debate.

BJP’s Allegations Against Opposition States

BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra claimed that during the period of alleged bribery (2021–2022), the four states implicated in the case were governed by opposition-led parties. Patra specifically named Chhattisgarh (ruled by the Congress), Andhra Pradesh (YSRCP), Tamil Nadu (DMK), and Odisha (BJD).

Patra criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the issue. “Rahul Gandhi has a history of trying to tarnish the Prime Minister’s image. This is yet another attempt to create a false narrative,” he said.

Bhupesh Baghel Responds to BJP Claims

Denying any link between his tenure as Chief Minister and the allegations, Baghel pointed the finger back at the BJP. "The transfer of Korba Waste Power Plant, Raigarh Power Plant, and other major projects to the Adani Group happened under the central government’s directives during Raman Singh's administration," he asserted.

Baghel emphasized that there was no agreement between his government and Adani during his term from 2020 to 2023. "The BJP’s allegations are merely an attempt to divert attention," he added.

Adani Group Denies US Allegations

The Adani Group has categorically rejected the charges filed by the US Department of Justice, calling them "unfounded." In an official statement, the company announced its intent to explore all legal avenues to defend itself.

Despite the denial, the allegations have taken a toll on the group's financial standing, with shares plummeting nearly 20% on Indian stock exchanges following the news.

Details of the US Indictment

The charges from US prosecutors accuse Gautam Adani, along with other key executives, of engaging in a bribery scheme to win favorable terms for solar energy projects between 2020 and 2024. The contracts are believed to have generated profits exceeding $2 billion.

US officials allege that the group concealed these bribes from international investors and financial institutions, leading to severe scrutiny under American anti-corruption laws.

Political Fallout

This development has intensified the debate over alleged links between major corporations and political entities in India. With the BJP and opposition exchanging heated accusations, the issue has taken center stage in both political and corporate discourse.

As investigations continue, the fallout is expected to have wide-reaching implications for India's governance and the reputation of its corporate sector.