New Delhi: The United States on Saturday rejected allegations made by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) that organisations funded by the US State Department and elements within the American "deep state" were behind efforts to destabilise India. These claims included targeted attacks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and business tycoon Gautam Adani.

A spokesperson from the US embassy termed the accusations as "disappointing" and stressed that the US government has long been an advocate for media freedom globally.

The BJP had raised concerns on Thursday, alleging that the US deep state had collaborated with the media portal OCCRP (Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project) and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to damage India’s reputation. The BJP pointed to Gandhi's use of OCCRP reports to criticise the Adani Group, accusing it of having close ties to the Indian government.

US defends media freedom and independent organisations

"It’s disappointing that the ruling party in India would make these kinds of accusations," the US embassy spokesperson said. The official further clarified that the US government works with independent organisations to support professional development and capacity-building for journalists, but this programming does not influence editorial decisions.

The OCCRP, headquartered in Amsterdam, focuses on reporting stories related to crime and corruption. The BJP had cited a French media report which claimed OCCRP receives funding from the US State Department's USAID, as well as from other prominent figures like George Soros and the Rockefeller Foundation.

Media freedom essential for democracy

"The United States has long been a champion of media freedom around the world," the US embassy official said. "A free and independent press is an essential component of any democracy, enabling informed and constructive debate and holding those in power accountable."

Adani charges spark political debate

The controversy surrounding Adani intensified following charges filed by US prosecutors last month. They accused Gautam Adani, his nephew Sagar, and others of paying over USD 250 million in bribes between 2020 and 2024 to secure solar energy contracts. The deal could have potentially earned over USD 2 billion in profits.

In response, Congress called for a thorough investigation, accusing the government of shielding Adani. However, the Adani Group has dismissed these allegations as "baseless." 

With PTI inputs