Adani bribery case: US court orders joint trial of criminal, civil cases
New York: A US court has combined three cases against industrialist Gautam Adani into a joint trial, citing similar allegations and transactions. The charges involve the payment of USD 265 million (approximately Rs 2,029 crore) in bribes to secure solar energy contracts with state electricity distribution companies.
The cases consolidated for the trial include US vs Adani and others (a criminal case), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) vs Adani and others (a civil case), and SEC vs Cabanes (a civil case involving other accused).
The decision, taken to ensure judicial efficiency and avoid scheduling conflicts, assigns all cases to District Judge Nicholas G. Garaufis, who is already overseeing the criminal case against Adani.
US prosecutors have alleged that the Adani Group concealed the bribery allegations from US banks and investors while raising funds for solar energy projects.
Refuting the accusations, the Adani Group described them as "baseless," asserting, "We are a law-abiding organisation, fully compliant with all laws." A company spokesperson emphasised that the indictment is based on charges, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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Ramesh Bidhuri's "Priyanka Gandhi's cheeks" remark sparks controversy
Congress slams BJP leader for misogynistic comment, demands apology
New Delhi: As the Delhi Assembly elections approach, political controversies have begun to surface. BJP candidate from Kalkaji Assembly constituency, Ramesh Bidhuri, has sparked outrage with his controversial statement, which has gone viral on social media. In the statement, Bidhuri claims, "We will make Kalkaji's roads like Priyanka Gandhi's cheeks."
Known for his contentious remarks, Bidhuri allegedly made this comment during a BJP event in the Kalkaji area.
When Aaj Tak questioned Bidhuri about the viral comment, he referenced Lalu Prasad Yadav's earlier statement comparing Bihar's roads to Hema Malini's cheeks. Bidhuri added, "If this statement hurts Congress, they should recall that Hema Malini is a respected actress who has brought pride to India through her work, which reflects society." He criticised Congress leaders, saying, "They have reached their political positions through flattery, not public service. If Congress finds my statement objectionable, they should first denounce Lalu Yadav's remarks."
The statement has triggered a political uproar. Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have strongly criticised both Bidhuri and the BJP. Congress accused BJP of being anti-women and called Bidhuri's comment shameful, highlighting it as reflective of a misogynistic mindset. They stated, "A person who used abusive language against a fellow MP in Parliament without facing consequences epitomises BJP's true face." Congress also demanded an apology from Bidhuri and questioned the silence of BJP leaders, including PM Modi, on such derogatory remarks.
Meanwhile, AAP MP Sanjay Singh commented, "This is how BJP respects women. Can the safety and dignity of Delhi's women be entrusted to leaders like Bidhuri?"
