Six US lawmakers have raised concerns regarding the Adani indictment in a letter to newly-appointed US Attorney General Pamela Bondi, questioning decisions made by the US Department of Justice (DOJ) under President Joe Biden. The lawmakers criticized what they described as “questionable decisions” that they argue have jeopardized relationships with key allies like India.
The letter, signed by US Congress members Lance Gooden, Pat Fallon, Mike Haridopolos, Brandon Gill, William R. Timmons, and Brian Babin, highlights the DOJ’s handling of the case against India-based Adani Group. The lawmakers expressed concern that the case, which involves allegations of attempts by company executives to bribe Indian officials, should have been handled by Indian authorities rather than being pursued by the US DOJ.
The letter reads, “One such decision involves the questionable pursuit of a case against the Adani group, an Indian company with executives based in India. The case centers on allegations that preparations were made by members of the company in India to bribe Indian officials, also located in India. Rather than deferring to Indian authorities, the Biden DOJ decided to press forward and indict the company’s executives, even though there was no significant injury to US interests.”
The lawmakers argued that there was no compelling reason for the US to pursue this case, particularly when it could harm relations with India, a crucial ally. They also suggested that external political motivations might be influencing the DOJ’s actions.
“This misguided crusade risks damaging our relationship with a strategic geopolitical partner like India, especially at a time when President Trump is preparing to return to the Oval Office,” the lawmakers warned.
The lawmakers emphasized the unique nature of the US-India relationship, describing it as one based on mutual respect and appreciation, especially between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They noted that the two leaders have worked hard to build a strong economic and military partnership between the two nations. India’s role as a valuable ally in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in countering China’s growing influence, was also underscored.
The lawmakers also cautioned that politically motivated decisions by agencies influenced by left-wing megadonors could undermine years of diplomatic efforts. They warned that a fallout in US-India relations would benefit adversaries like China, whose Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) aims to expand its global economic control.
The letter further pointed out that similar concerns about this case were raised with the previous Attorney General in early January 2025, but no response was received before his departure. The lawmakers are now urging Attorney General Bondi to review the DOJ’s actions in this matter and to investigate whether there were external influences guiding the decision.
In their letter, the lawmakers called for the preservation of all records related to the case and requested that Bondi share them to facilitate a coordinated effort to uncover the truth behind the DOJ’s conduct.
