America: Lawmakers Urge Attorney General Pam Bondi To Investigate Biden Administration’s Indictment Of Adani Officials

Six US Congressmen have urged newly appointed Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate the previous Department of Justice’s (DoJ) indictment of Adani Group officials, labelling it a "misguided crusade" that risks damaging the United States' strategic partnership with India, as per a NDTV report.

In a strongly worded letter, Lance Gooden, Pat Fallon, Mike Haridopolos, Brandon Gill, William R Timmons, and Brian Babin questioned the Biden administration’s decision to press charges against Adani Group executives over alleged bribery in India, arguing that the case should have been handled by Indian authorities instead.

"This case rests on the allegation that preparations were made by members of this company in India to bribe Indian officials, also exclusively located in India. Instead of deferring the case to the appropriate Indian authorities, the Biden DoJ decided to push forward and indict the company's executives without any real injury to US interests being present," the lawmakers wrote.

They argued there was "no compelling reason" to pursue the case in a way that could strain ties with a key ally like India, unless driven by external political motives.

They further criticised the Biden administration’s handling of the matter, calling it one of the "unwise decisions" that could undermine bilateral relations at a critical time.

"This misguided crusade came at the risk of harming our relationship with a strategic geopolitical partner like India immediately preceding President Trump's return to the Oval Office," they added.

They warned that "needless pursuits against those who have contributed tens of billions and created thousands of jobs" could deter investors and harm American interests.

They further underscored the diplomatic ties between the two nations, saying that "the US and India share a sense of mutual respect and appreciation - a sentiment emulated by President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi."

Taking a swipe at the Biden administration, they suggested the indictment might have been influenced by "politically motivated decisions by agencies steered by left-wing megadonors", warning that such actions could unravel years of diplomatic progress.

They cautioned that damaging ties with India would only serve to benefit China in its quest for global economic dominance through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

They described the indictment as a "selective pursuit" that needed reassessment, stating: "We request you investigate the Biden DOJ's conduct and would appreciate you sharing with us all records pertaining to this case, for a coordinated effort in uncovering the truth."