Bangladesh’s Bold Move: Reassessing Hasina-Era Power Deals and the Controversial Adani Agreement

The interim government of Bangladesh, under Mohammad Yunus, announced a full review of significant power agreements from the era of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, particularly focusing on a contentious deal with the Adani Group for a 1234.4 MW coal-fired power plant in Godda, India. A newly established review committee has urged that contracts from 2009 to 2024 under Hasina’s regime undergo comprehensive investigations.

This committee is meticulously assessing key projects, including the Godda thermal plant operated by Adani Power Limited. The review also covers other notable agreements, such as a 1320 MW coal-fired plant by a Chinese firm and contracts with business groups allegedly connected to Hasina’s administration.

The Godda project has been a persistent source of controversy, with Bangladeshi political groups claiming it serves concealed motives. Experts criticize the deal for allegedly compelling Bangladesh to buy power at exorbitant prices. The project’s initial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2015 visit to Bangladesh, with a formal agreement finalized in 2017. Earlier this year, the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) requested Adani Power to revise the contract terms.

This evaluation underscores the interim government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in national power dealings, as well as addressing potential discrepancies in agreements made during previous administrations.

Original Story https://www.indiatodayne.in/international/story/bangladeshs-interim-government-to-reassess-hasina-era-power-deals-including-adani-agreement-1126776-2024-11-25?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2024-11-25 14:29:00