Congress demands discussion on Adani bribery scandal, Manipur crisis in winter Parliament session

Ahead of the Winter Session of Parliament, which begins on November 25, Congress has called for an immediate discussion on several critical issues, including the bribery allegations against the Adani Group and the ongoing violence in Manipur. The party made its demand during an all-party meeting on Saturday, which was convened by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju and presided over by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Congress leader Pramod Tiwari stated that the party wants the Adani bribery allegations to be discussed as the first agenda item when Parliament reconvenes.

Pramod Tiwari highlighted that the allegations against the Adani Group involve claims that over Rs 2,300 crore were paid to politicians and bureaucrats to secure favorable deals for solar energy projects. According to Tiwari, “It is a grave issue involving the country’s economic and security interests.” U.S. prosecutors have charged Adani with orchestrating a $265 million (approximately Rs 2,200 crore) scheme to bribe Indian officials in exchange for favorable terms in securing solar power contracts. Congress has been demanding a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into the matter.

In addition to the Adani issue, Congress is calling for discussions on the violence in Manipur. The state has been witnessing ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities, resulting in large-scale violence, displacement, and loss of life. Congress has expressed concerns about the escalating situation and its failure to be adequately addressed by the central government. The party has emphasized that the situation in Manipur has spiraled “out of control,” with the ongoing unrest causing widespread turmoil in the region.

Congress is also seeking a debate on severe air pollution in northern India, particularly in the National Capital Region (NCR). Air quality levels in Delhi and neighboring states have reached hazardous levels in recent weeks, with authorities issuing health advisories and warning the public to limit outdoor activities. The air pollution crisis has sparked widespread public concern, with experts citing vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, and stubble burning as primary contributors.

Lastly, Congress is demanding a discussion on train accidents that have been occurring regularly across the country. The party has called for improved safety measures and accountability in the wake of several accidents that have caused loss of life and injuries. Congress has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the Indian Railways' safety protocols, urging the government to take immediate steps to prevent further accidents. The Winter Session of Parliament is scheduled to run until December 20, with the government listing 16 bills for consideration, including the Waqf Amendment Bill and the proposal for ‘One Nation, One Election.’