New Delhi, Oct 18 : Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has raised concerns about the Adani Group’s alleged over-invoicing in coal imports and its impact on electricity rates, citing a recent media report. He accused the Adani Group of taking around Rs 12,000 crore from the public through elevated electricity rates. Speaking at a press conference held at the AICC headquarters in New Delhi, Gandhi directed his criticism at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to initiate an investigation into the matter and uphold his credibility.
Rahul Gandhi emphasized the Prime Minister’s silence on the Adani issue, calling for transparency and a thorough inquiry. He pointed to a Financial Times report during the press conference, which suggested that the Adani Group may have imported coal at significantly higher prices than the market value.
According to Gandhi, the report indicates that Adani inflated the prices of coal imports, resulting in a significant financial burden on consumers. Allegedly, the coal was initially purchased in Indonesia, but its price doubled upon reaching India.
Gandhi further asserted that this over-invoicing of coal imports was directly affecting electricity rates in the country, causing consumers to pay higher bills. He questioned why no action had been taken in India despite the potential consequences of such actions, suggesting that Adani enjoyed strong government support.
The Indian opposition party has been scrutinizing the financial dealings of billionaire Gautam Adani’s Group, particularly after US research firm Hindenburg raised concerns of “irregularities” and alleged stock price manipulation. The Adani Group has vehemently denied all allegations made in the Hindenburg report, maintaining that it has acted ethically and responsibly in all its financial transactions.
As of now, there has been no immediate response from the Adani Group regarding the latest accusations raised by Rahul Gandhi.
