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The Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) has leveled serious allegations against the state's ruling coalition, accusing its key figures of shielding the Adani Group from accountability in a significant bribery scandal. APCC vice-president Kolanukonda Shivaji's statement, released on November 3rd, directly implicated Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, and former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy in a conspiracy to protect the Adani Group from the consequences of an alleged ₹1,750 crore bribe. This accusation stems from a 52-page indictment filed by the FBI in a U.S. court, detailing alleged bribery payments made by the Adani Group to Andhra Pradesh government officials under the guise of a technical project. The gravity of the situation is underscored by the fact that the ruling coalition, despite this damning revelation, has reportedly taken a 'wait-and-watch' approach, failing to take any concrete action or even publicly address the accusations, even in a subsequent cabinet meeting.
Shivaji's statement highlighted the stark contrast between the Andhra Pradesh government's inaction and the decisive measures taken by other countries. He pointed out that nations like Kenya and Bangladesh have already canceled agreements with the Adani Group following the FBI's investigation. This inaction, he argued, is evidence of a deliberate attempt to protect the Adani Group and potentially implicate former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy. The Congress leader's demand for immediate prosecution of those involved is a direct challenge to the ruling coalition, demanding that they cancel the controversial 25-year power purchase agreement signed with the Adani Group. Furthermore, he emphasized the urgent need to alleviate the burden of exorbitant 'true-up' charges imposed on the people of Andhra Pradesh, amounting to a staggering ₹1,10,000 crore, with an initial installment of ₹15,000 crore already collected through electricity bills. This financial burden, coupled with the allegations of corruption, paints a picture of widespread mismanagement and potential malfeasance within the Andhra Pradesh government.
Beyond the Adani bribery allegations, Shivaji also highlighted the ongoing controversy surrounding the Kakinada Sea Port. He referenced Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar's allegations of forced transfer of port management from K.V. Rao to Aurobindo Realties, criticizing the government's lack of a clear roadmap to address this issue. The Congress leader expressed concerns about the lack of justice for K.V. Rao, the original port owner, and demanded a transparent investigation. This situation further underscores the broader pattern of alleged irregularities and lack of accountability within the Andhra Pradesh government. Finally, Shivaji demanded the establishment of a fast-track court to expedite the investigation and punishment of those involved in the alleged illegal transportation of PDS rice worth ₹48,000 crore from the Kakinada Port. This accusation adds another layer of complexity to the already precarious situation, highlighting the scale of alleged corruption and the urgent need for decisive action.
The APCC's accusations represent a significant escalation of political tensions in Andhra Pradesh. The allegations of a high-level cover-up involving influential political figures demand a thorough and impartial investigation. The implications extend far beyond the immediate financial implications; they raise critical questions about the integrity of the state government and the rule of law. The silence of the ruling coalition in the face of such serious allegations only serves to further fuel public distrust and suspicion. The demand for cancellation of the Adani agreement and the relief from 'true-up' charges underscore the urgency of addressing the public's concerns. The ultimate test will be the government's response – whether it will launch a transparent and credible investigation or continue to maintain its 'wait-and-watch' stance, allowing the allegations to hang heavy over the political landscape of Andhra Pradesh.
Source: Naidu, Pawan and Jagan are in cahoots to protect Adani, alleges A.P. Congress leader