Bangladesh to review power deal with India’s Adani Group
Dhaka, : Bangladesh’s interim government has announced a comprehensive review of major power agreements signed between 2009 and 2024, including the controversial deal with India’s Adani Group.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government has formed a review committee, which cited concerns over several projects, notably the Adani (Godda) BIFPCL 1234.4 MW coal-fired plant.
The committee, headed by retired High Court judge Moyeenul Islam Chowdhury, has recommended hiring international legal and investigative agencies to scrutinize the deals further. Initial findings suggest that some agreements may require termination or renegotiation under internal arbitration laws. Other agreements under review include a 1320 MW coal-fired power plant run by a Chinese company and other projects linked to Sheikh Hasina’s administration.
Adani’s Godda plant has faced criticism since its inception, with allegations of overpricing and unfavorable terms for Bangladesh. In 2023, Bangladesh’s Power Development Board (BPD) requested Adani to revise coal prices, calling them exorbitant. Amid ongoing disputes, Adani recently demanded $800 million in unpaid bills, further straining the relationship.
The controversy surrounding Adani extends beyond Bangladesh. Last week, Kenya canceled all infrastructure deals with the conglomerate following a U.S. indictment accusing Adani of bribery. This growing scrutiny raises questions about the conglomerate’s regional influence and its ties to political figures. KMS-8K