Adani US Indictment Update: Gautam Adani Accepts SEC Legal Notice

The ongoing legal battle involving the Adani Group in the United States has taken a new turn. Recent reports confirm that Gautam Adani and his nephew, Sagar Adani, have agreed to receive legal notices from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This development is part of the high-profile case alleging a multi-million dollar bribery scheme.

Here is a simple breakdown of what has happened, what the indictment means, and how it impacts India.

What is the Latest News?

As of early February 2026, Gautam Adani (Chairman of Adani Group) and Sagar Adani (Director of Adani Green Energy) have officially agreed to accept the “service of process” from the US SEC.

In simple terms, this means they have acknowledged the legal papers sent by the US regulator. They have not admitted to any crime, but they have agreed to follow the legal procedure.

• The Timeline: They now have 90 days to respond to the allegations or file a request to dismiss the complaint.
• The Reaction: The Adani Group continues to deny all allegations, stating they are law-abiding and compliant with all regulations.

Background: What is the Case About?

The controversy began in late 2024 when US prosecutors and the SEC filed charges (an indictment) against top Adani executives.

• The Allegation: The US authorities allege that Adani executives were involved in a scheme to pay approximately $265 million (over ₹2,200 crore) in bribes to Indian government officials.
• The Purpose: These alleged bribes were meant to secure lucrative solar energy power contracts for Adani Green Energy.
• The Fraud Charge: The US indictment claims that while these alleged bribes were being planned, the company raised billions of dollars from US investors by claiming they had a strict anti-corruption policy. The US calls this “securities fraud” because they believe investors were misled.

Why Does a US Court Matter for an Indian Company?

Many people ask why a US court is involved in alleged bribes paid in India. The reason is money.

• The Adani Group raised funds from American investors and international banks.
• Under US law (specifically the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act), it is a crime to use the US financial system to facilitate bribery or to lie to American investors about honest business practices.

Impact on India and Politics

This case has triggered a massive political storm in India.

• Opposition Stance: Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has frequently cited this indictment (often referring to it as the “Anklagen” or charges) to attack the central government. On February 3, 2026, he reiterated claims that the Prime Minister is “compromised” and protecting the business group.
• Government Stance: The Indian government maintains that the law will take its own course and that this is a legal matter between a private entity and a foreign regulator.

What Happens Next?

The legal process in the US is slow and complex.

1. Response: The Adani team will file their legal defense within the next three months.
2. Civil vs. Criminal: There are two parallel cases. The SEC case is civil (about fines and business bans). The DOJ (Department of Justice) case is criminal (which can carry jail terms), though extradition (sending someone to the US for trial) is a very long and difficult process.
3. Market Reaction: Adani Group stocks have seen volatility since the news broke, but the company continues to secure new projects and investments in India.

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