Opposition MPs Demand Adani Probe: Rahul Gandhi Calls Modi and Adani "One"

In a heated protest outside Parliament, several opposition MPs, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, gathered wearing half-jackets emblazoned with the slogan "Modi-Adani are one." Their demonstration aimed to press for the formation of a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to investigate allegations of fraud involving the Adani Group.

Rahul Gandhi Attacks Modi

Speaking to reporters, Rahul Gandhi launched a direct attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating, "Modi ji cannot get Adani ji investigated. Because if he does, he will get himself investigated." He reiterated his claim that "Modi and Adani are not two, they are one."

This statement underscores the ongoing demand by Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party for an independent inquiry into the allegations against the Adani Group. The controversy stems from accusations by U.S. government agencies, including the Department of Justice and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), that Gautam Adani and his associates engaged in fraudulent practices. However, the Adani Group has categorically denied these claims, calling them baseless and indicating they are exploring legal options.

TMC MP expresses concern about unpaid central funds

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kirti Azad also participated in the protest, emphasizing that despite each party's individual strategies, they stand united on key national issues in Parliament. Azad highlighted concerns about unpaid central funds to West Bengal, amounting to Rs1.83 lakh crore, meant for vital sectors such as housing, roads, health, and education. He added, “We want to discuss unemployment, inflation, and the situation in Bangladesh, but the government remains silent.”

Azad criticized the government's lack of response to essential concerns, saying, "There has been no answer on issues like the shortage of fertilizers or the price of staples like potatoes and rice that affect 140 crore people."

BJP's Response and Assam Beef Ban

In contrast to the opposition's protest, BJP MP Rameshwar Teli defended the Assam government's recent ban on the sale of beef in restaurants and public places. Teli praised the decision, stating, "Those who want to eat will eat, but it will not be sold in public places," and thanked the Chief Minister of Assam for implementing the ban.

Rahul could have raised Sambhal issue in the House: BJP

Another point of contention arose when Rahul Gandhi was prevented from visiting Sambhal on December 4. Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal moved an adjournment motion in Parliament regarding this issue. Meanwhile, BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, who chairs the JPC on the Wakf Amendment Bill, criticized Gandhi’s attempt to leave the ongoing Parliament session for Sambhal.

Pal said. "An unfortunate incident occurred in Sambhal, and the administration is working to stabilize the situation. Public representatives have been asked not to visit the area. If Rahul Gandhi wished to appeal for peace, he could have done so from Parliament."

Pal accused Gandhi of neglecting parliamentary duties, remarking, "The Parliament session is ongoing. If he believed the issue was important, he could have raised it here. His actions suggest he is not interested in running the House."

Rahul Gandhi's direct accusations against Prime Minister Modi reflect the intensifying political rivalry, while the BJP continues to counter with its own narratives. As the winter session of Parliament unfolds, these debates signal a growing divide between the ruling party and the opposition on critical national issues.

PRAKASH KUMAR PANDEY