The statement added that the committee needed additional time to analyze other contracts, both solicited and unsolicited….reports Asian Lite News
Bangladesh’s interim government has initiated a review of power agreements signed during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure, with a committee recommending the appointment of an international investigation agency to scrutinize deals, including one with India’s Adani Group.
The National Review Committee on Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources, led by retired High Court judge Moyeenul Islam Chowdhury, proposed engaging a reputed legal and investigation agency to examine seven major energy and power projects signed between 2009 and 2024. These projects include the Adani (Godda) BIFPCL 1234.4 MW coal-fired plant and a 1320 MW coal-fired plant built by a Chinese company, along with agreements involving Bangladeshi business groups reportedly close to the previous regime.
An official statement from Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus’s office highlighted that the committee had gathered substantial evidence suggesting that some agreements may require cancellation or renegotiation under international arbitration laws. The statement added that the committee needed additional time to analyze other contracts, both solicited and unsolicited.
“In light of the findings, we recommend the immediate appointment of one or more top-level international legal and investigation agencies to assist the committee,” the statement read.
India’s External Affairs Ministry has previously emphasized the critical role of energy cooperation in India-Bangladesh relations. However, tensions have arisen over the Adani Group’s Godda thermal plant, built exclusively to supply power to Bangladesh. The plant has faced challenges as Bangladesh’s Power Development Board struggles with an $800 million unpaid bill amid a dollar shortage, having managed to pay $150 million so far.
Additionally, India’s recent regulatory changes allowing domestic sale of Godda’s power have fueled speculation over whether Bangladesh will continue to receive dedicated supply from the plant.
The interim government’s probe follows earlier steps to review contracts signed under the Quick Enhancement of Electricity and Energy Supply Act, 2010, which was amended in 2021, amid allegations of corruption in the country’s power sector.
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