Opposition accused government of avoiding Adani bribery discussion

The Congress party continued its distinctive protests in the Parliament premises, using various props to express their concerns about the Adani bribery case. After previously using items like jackets, masks, and bags, Congress leaders on December 11 were seen offering roses and the Indian national flag to BJP MPs. Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, was seen giving a rose and a flag to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh as he arrived at the Parliament. Members of the opposition alliance, INDIA, were also seen carrying roses and the Tricolour at the Parliament entrance.

Congress MP Manickam Tagore explained that the gesture was meant to send a message to the BJP, symbolizing that the nation comes first. The opposition was protesting outside Parliament, accusing the government of avoiding discussion on bribery allegations against the Adani Group in the United States. Since the parliamentary session began on November 20, both Houses of Parliament have faced frequent disruptions, largely driven by this issue.

While Congress has demanded a debate on the Adani matter, the BJP has countered by accusing the Congress, particularly Sonia Gandhi, of having ties to billionaire George Soros. They claim that the Congress is connected to an organization funded by Soros, which allegedly supported efforts to separate Kashmir from India.

In November, US prosecutors charged Adani, his nephew Sagar, and others for allegedly paying over $250 million in bribes from 2020 to 2024 to Indian officials to secure favorable solar energy contracts, potentially worth billions.

Additionally, on December 10, opposition parties from the INDIA alliance filed a notice to move a motion in the Rajya Sabha to remove Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, accusing him of being biased in his role as chairman of the Upper House. For the motion to pass, the opposition would need a simple majority, but they lack the required numbers in the 243-member Rajya Sabha. Despite this, the opposition sees the motion as an important step to defend parliamentary democracy.

The Rajya Sabha session on December 10 was adjourned after both opposition and government members exchanged accusations regarding the motion against the Vice President.