November 25, 2024: Mallikarjun Kharge, the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, has moved a significant step towards probing allegations of misconduct involving the Adani Group. On Monday, Kharge issued a suspension of business notice under Rule 267 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Council of States, calling for a discussion on the formation of a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to investigate the Adani Group's alleged wrongdoings.

Rule 267 allows for the suspension of normal parliamentary procedures to address urgent matters. In his letter to Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Kharge outlined his intention to move a motion that would suspend the Zero Hour, Question Hour, and other scheduled business for the day, enabling a full discussion on the establishment of the JPC.

The proposed investigation would focus on serious allegations against the Adani Group, including charges of corruption, bribery, and financial irregularities. A key area of concern highlighted by Kharge is the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) tender, where the Adani Group is accused of paying bribes to state officials to secure Power Supply Agreements (PSAs). These claims are reportedly backed by an indictment from a U.S. court.

Additionally, Kharge’s notice calls for a broader investigation into the alleged manipulation of stocks, accounting fraud, the use of tax havens, and the accumulation of significant debt by the Adani Group. These issues have sparked intense debate across political and business circles, with calls for greater accountability and transparency in corporate governance.

Kharge’s move comes amid mounting pressure on the government to address these allegations and ensure a fair investigation into the matter. The outcome of the Rajya Sabha's response to the suspension of business notice could set the stage for a deeper inquiry into the financial dealings of one of India’s largest conglomerates.