US Judge Seeks Explanation for DOJ’s Decision to Drop Gautam Adani Bribery Case

A U.S. federal judge has ordered the Department of Justice (DOJ) to explain its decision to abandon the criminal case against Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, delaying an immediate dismissal of the high-profile prosecution.

On Friday, U.S. District Judge Nicholas Garaufis in Brooklyn declined to immediately approve a request from Adani’s legal team to formally dismiss the charges. Instead, the judge instructed the DOJ to provide further details on why it decided to discontinue the case, raising fresh questions about the government’s change in position.

The criminal case was originally filed in 2024 and accused Adani of participating in a bribery scheme involving Indian government officials. Prosecutors alleged that the payments were intended to secure regulatory approvals for a solar power project being developed by a subsidiary of the Adani Group.

In addition to the bribery allegations, the DOJ claimed Adani misled U.S. investors by making statements that portrayed the company as having strong anti-corruption compliance measures. Prosecutors argued those assurances did not accurately reflect the alleged conduct tied to the solar project.

The Adani Group has repeatedly denied all allegations, maintaining that neither Gautam Adani nor the company engaged in any illegal activity. The conglomerate has consistently defended its corporate governance standards throughout the legal proceedings.

Last month, the Justice Department announced it would no longer pursue the prosecution, marking a significant reversal in one of the most closely watched corporate legal cases involving an Indian business leader. Following that decision, Adani’s lawyers filed a motion on Wednesday asking Judge Garaufis to formally dismiss the indictment.

The judge’s latest order does not revive the prosecution but requires the DOJ to justify its decision before the court considers whether the case should be officially closed. The outcome could determine how the legal proceedings against Gautam Adani ultimately conclude in the U.S. judicial system.