New Delhi,Sep.16,2025:Bihar Double Loot has become the latest political flashpoint after Congress alleged that the ruling BJP has given away 1,050 acres of land in Bhagalpur to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s close associate, Gautam Adani, at a token rent of just Re 1 per year for 33 years-
Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera made these claims during a press conference in New Delhi, calling the deal a “shocking example of crony capitalism” that hurts both Bihar’s farmers and its citizens.
Why Congress Calls It a Double Loot
Congress argues that the deal amounts to a “double loot” of Bihar’s people:
- Land Grab at Throwaway Price – Farmers are losing their fertile land, and nearly 10 lakh trees are to be cut down.
- Expensive Electricity – The same people whose land and resources are used will have to buy electricity at ₹6.75 per unit.
Khera alleged-
“This is not development; this is Bihar Double Loot. Farmers lose land, forests vanish, and in the end, ordinary citizens are forced to pay more for electricity.”
Details of Bhagalpur Adani Power Project
The controversial project involves setting up a 2,400 MW power plant in Bhagalpur district.
Key Details as Alleged by Congress–
- Land Allocated: 1,050 acres
- Lease Period: 33 years
- Annual Rent: Re 1
- Trees Affected: Nearly 10 lakh
- Project Budget: ₹21,400 crore
- Power Tariff: ₹6.75 per unit
Initially, the plant was announced in the Budget as a government initiative. Later, Congress claims, it was handed over to Adani Group without transparency.
Election Timing and Political Accusations
The timing of the deal has raised eyebrows. Bihar is heading for Assembly elections, and opposition parties allege that this “sweetheart deal” is meant to secure corporate backing.
Khera further claimed similar patterns in other states:
- Maharashtra: Dharavi redevelopment handed to Adani before polls.
- Jharkhand & Chhattisgarh: Big projects awarded to Adani before elections.
Congress is projecting this as a nationwide strategy of “loot before vote.”
Crony Capitalism vs Development Debate
This controversy reignites the old debate on crony capitalism. Opposition parties have long accused the Modi government of favoring select industrialists like Adani and Ambani.
BJP, on the other hand, defends private participation, arguing that it brings investment, jobs, and growth.
For reference: The Hindu report on crony capitalism accusations outlines similar debates.
Impact on Farmers and Environment
The most direct impact of this alleged Bihar Double Loot will be felt by:
- Farmers: Losing ancestral land without fair compensation.
- Environment: Nearly 10 lakh trees cut, worsening Bihar’s already fragile ecosystem.
- Villagers: Displacement and loss of livelihoods.
Environmental activists warn that such projects may cause long-term ecological damage.
How Similar Deals Happened Before Elections
Congress highlighted a trend:
- In Maharashtra, Adani bagged the Dharavi project before state elections.
- In Jharkhand, coal blocks were allotted to Adani-linked firms just before polls.
- In Chhattisgarh, energy projects were cleared weeks before elections.
This repetition strengthens the opposition’s claim that “corporate deals” are linked with political calendars.
What BJP and Adani Say
So far, BJP has not officially responded to these fresh allegations.
In earlier cases, BJP leaders have argued that:
- Large-scale projects boost infrastructure.
- Private companies create jobs.
- Power generation helps tackle Bihar’s energy crisis.
The Adani Group has also previously dismissed such allegations, saying all projects are won through a fair bidding process.
Public Reactions in Bihar
On the ground, reactions are mixed:
- Farmers & activists oppose land acquisition, calling it exploitation.
- Urban middle class worry about rising electricity bills.
- Some traders support the project, expecting better power supply and jobs.
This divide could shape the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections narrative.
Expert Opinions on the Alleged Double Loot
Political experts say the “Bihar Double Loot” slogan could become a major weapon for Congress in rural areas.
- Economists argue that selling electricity at ₹6.75 per unit from land given almost free raises questions of fairness.
- Political analysts note that if BJP fails to counter the narrative, it may dent their pro-development image.
Bihar Politics at Crossroads
The Bihar Double Loot controversy highlights the clash between development promises and accusations of crony capitalism.
While BJP projects itself as the driver of growth, Congress and the opposition are painting it as corporate favouritism at the cost of common people.
With elections looming, this issue may dominate Bihar’s political stage. Whether it changes voter behaviour or gets lost in larger narratives remains to be seen.
