Kanwal Sibal Slams U.S. Charges Against Adani Group: A Violation of Sovereignty and Power Abuse

The recent indictment by U.S. prosecutors against billionaire Gautam Adani and his associates has sparked a diplomatic and legal controversy, with former Indian Foreign Secretary Kanwal Sibal strongly condemning the move. Labeling it as a “violation of sovereignty” and an “abusive use of U.S. power,” Sibal's remarks have amplified debates over the boundaries of international legal intervention and its implications on bilateral relations.

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has alleged that Adani and several associates orchestrated a bribery scheme worth over $250 million to secure solar power contracts in India. According to the indictment, the alleged misconduct involved offering bribes to Indian officials to gain an advantage in the highly competitive renewable energy sector. The charges, however, have been criticized by Indian policymakers and experts for overstepping jurisdictional boundaries, raising broader concerns about extraterritorial legal enforcement.

Kanwal Sibal expressed his dismay at what he perceives as the U.S.’s unilateral approach to the issue. He argued that the alleged activities occurred on Indian soil, involving Indian officials, and therefore should fall under India’s jurisdiction. Sibal emphasized that any evidence of wrongdoing should have been shared with Indian authorities, allowing the country’s legal system to address the matter. "This is sheer high-handedness," he said, warning that such actions could strain India-U.S. relations at a time when strategic partnerships between the two nations are being prioritized.

Adding to the critique, Sibal highlighted what he called the hypocrisy of the U.S. legal system. While American prosecutors investigate alleged corruption abroad, the U.S. itself grapples with domestic scandals and systemic corruption. Sibal questioned the legality of U.S. investigations conducted on foreign soil, suggesting they may violate local laws and sovereignty. He further warned that such extraterritorial prosecutions set a dangerous precedent, potentially inviting reciprocal actions by other nations.

The fallout from these allegations has been significant for the Adani Group. The indictment has led to a sharp decline in the company’s market value, with investors reacting to the uncertainty surrounding the case. The group, a major player in India's renewable energy push, now faces heightened scrutiny both domestically and internationally. Adani’s legal team has dismissed the allegations as baseless, accusing the U.S. prosecutors of overreach.

Beyond the immediate financial impact, the case raises critical questions about the balance of power in international law and diplomacy. The U.S.’s ability to prosecute foreign nationals for actions allegedly committed outside its borders reflects its expansive legal framework but also exposes it to criticism for undermining the sovereignty of other nations. For India, this episode serves as a reminder of the delicate dynamics in its relationship with the U.S., which often swings between collaboration and contention.

Sibal’s remarks underscore the need for mutual respect in handling cross-border legal matters. His pointed critique reflects a broader sentiment among Indian policymakers wary of external interference. As he noted, fostering strong international relationships requires recognizing and respecting each nation's legal systems and sovereignty. The current controversy, if unresolved, could become a sticking point in India-U.S. relations, challenging the trust and cooperation that both nations have worked to build.