Bangladesh's Global Probe: Unraveling Power Deals' Mysteries

Bangladesh's High Court has recently ordered the formation of an international panel to investigate the country's power purchase agreements, including those with Indian energy giant Adani. This move comes amidst growing criticism that these deals are one-sided and detrimental to Bangladesh's interests. The court has mandated the selection of a globally reputed legal firm to assist in this probe, prioritizing transparency, independence, and expertise.

The committee, comprising internationally reputed energy and legal experts, will analyze these agreements for any clauses that may be harmful to Bangladesh's interests. The investigation comes amidst concerns that these deals are unfair and inconsistent with public policies, with experts and civil society members critically evaluating the agreements.

The High Court's decision underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in cross-border energy deals. By selecting a legal firm with a proven track record in handling international energy disputes, Bangladesh can ensure a fair and thorough investigation. This panel should have experience in evaluating power purchase agreements, analyzing legal clauses, and assessing potential damages.

To maintain objectivity, the committee should prioritize legal experts with international reputations and no prior ties to either Bangladesh or India's Adani Group. Measures to prevent conflicts of interest among committee members include ensuring transparency, public scrutiny, independence, and a diverse mix of experts. The committee should also establish clear terms of reference and require members to declare any potential conflicts of interest.



In addition to protecting whistleblowers and maintaining confidentiality, the committee should ensure transparency in findings by publishing regular progress reports and making its final findings publicly available. Multi-stakeholder engagement, clear timelines, and international oversight can further enhance the investigation's transparency and accountability.

Bangladesh's decision to probe its power deals with the Adani Group is a step towards ensuring fairness and protecting national interests. By selecting a globally reputed legal firm and following best practices, Bangladesh can unravel the mysteries of these power deals, restore public confidence, and pave the way for more transparent and beneficial agreements in the future.