New Delhi: A US federal judge has dismissed criminal fraud and bribery charges against Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, while expressing concern over the US Justice Department's decision to abandon the high-profile case.
Brooklyn-based US District Judge Nicholas on Monday granted a request by federal prosecutors to drop the charges against Adani.
However, the judge noted that the Justice Department's move to discontinue the prosecution was "concerning," given the public interest surrounding the case and the circumstances under which it was withdrawn.
Before approving the dismissal, the judge sought clarification from prosecutors on their reasons for seeking to end the case. Among the issues examined was whether Adani's November 2024 commitment to invest $10 billion in the United States had played any role in the Justice Department's decision to abandon the prosecution.
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The case had accused Adani of involvement in fraud and bribery-related activities, allegations that had drawn significant international attention because of his position as one of India's most prominent business leaders.
In his order, the judge said he was satisfied that Adani's investment pledge was not a factor in the Justice Department's decision. At the same time, he acknowledged that courts have limited authority to second-guess prosecutorial discretion when the government seeks to dismiss criminal charges.
Reacting to the decision, Adani said in a X post, "I welcome the US court’s decision with humility and deep respect for the judicial process."
"Throughout this challenging period, our faith in truth, fairness and the rule of law remained unwavering. My deepest gratitude to those who never lost faith in us, in the system and in India’s capacity for justice," he added.
The post further added, "We will continue doing what matters: building for our nation, creating value that outlasts us and serving a purpose larger than ourselves. That is our commitment. Jai Hind."
The Justice Department's move represents one of the latest instances during U.S. President Donald Trump's second term in which federal prosecutors have sought to drop a major white-collar criminal case.
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The decision is likely to draw scrutiny from legal experts and political observers, given the significance of the allegations and the prominence of the accused.
The dismissal brings an end to the criminal proceedings against Adani in the United States, though the judge's remarks may continue to fuel debate over the Justice Department's handling of high-profile corporate prosecutions.
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