News Brief
Bangladesh Halves Adani Power Imports, Cites Payment Disputes Amid Allegations Of US Deep State Influence In South Asia
Chief Advisor Of Bangladesh's Interim Government Muhammed Yunus and Indian Billionaire Gautam Adani
Bangladesh has halved power imports from India’s Adani Power, citing reduced winter demand and ongoing disputes over unpaid dues amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars, government officials revealed on Monday (2 December)
This development comes amidst allegations of that a US "deep state" is at work in the indictment of Adani over bribery allegations and the current situation involving the Bangladesh's interim government.
Gautam Adani, accused of bribery by US authorities—charges he denies—slashed power supply to Bangladesh by half on 31 October due to payment delays. Bangladesh, grappling with a foreign exchange crisis, subsequently instructed Adani to supply only half the contracted power while continuing to address outstanding dues.
“We were shocked and angry when they cut our supply,” remarked Md. Rezaul Karim, chairman of Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB). He added that reduced winter demand meant one of Adani's two 800 MW units would remain idle.
Adani Power’s spokesperson stated that despite significant dues—amounting to $900 million, per company insiders—the firm continues power supply to Bangladesh. “We are in constant dialogue with BPDB officials and have been assured that dues will be cleared soon,” said the spokesperson.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh has hinted at renegotiating or possibly canceling the agreement, with its de facto energy minister emphasizing the need for fair pricing. A court-ordered investigation into the deal’s legitimacy is also underway.
The controversy has broader implications, with both Adani’s indictment and Bangladesh's power crisis pointing to potential geopolitical maneuvers involving US influence in South Asia. Whether these allegations hold water or are mere speculation remains to be seen.
