Law enforcement have raided the residence of a leading environmental activist in India, alleging that his advocacy for a treaty to cut coal, oil, and gas use was undermining the national interest.
Probe into International Finances and Alleged Misrepresentation
Agencies claim that the campaigner, the individual, and his wife, his partner, co-founders of an organization called Nature Forever, were received nearly £500,000 to advocate for the FFNPT initiative.
"Although framed as a climate initiative, its implementation could expose India to legal challenges in global courts and severely compromise the country's access to energy and growth," said investigators.
The law enforcement agency, which falls under the finance ministry, stated it carried out raids as part of an ongoing investigation into suspicious international money transfers received under the pretext of consultancy charges.
"Further checking of documents suggests that the money were meant to advance the objectives of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty within India," the agency added.
Understanding the Treaty Initiative
The FFNPT is an international campaign that calls for a pact to stop exploration for new oil and gas reserves and to systematically reduce their use.
Initially supported by Pacific Island nations like Vanuatu and Tuvalu, it now boasts the support of 17 national governments, the World Health Organization, and the European parliament.
Further Claims and Arrest
During the raid, officers said they found a "large cache" of alcohol above permissible amounts at the activist's residence.
This led to officers detaining and then releasing him.
The agency also stated it was looking into travel made to Pakistan and Bangladesh last year, including their financial backing.
Response from the Activists
In a statement, the couple stated they were legally barred from sharing details of the matter but added: "We categorically state that the allegations being reported are unfounded, biased and misleading."
They explained that they had started their venture with their own savings and borrowed money in 2016, and that its advisory work expanded in 2021.
"These contributions and efforts are widely recorded across print, digital, television and social media, as well as open forums," they noted.
Wider Environment for Activist Groups
The activist is a known presence at international climate negotiations, having worked with various NGOs for over twenty years.
Under the current administration, civil society organisations in India have faced severe pressures. Thousands of licenses to receive international donations have been suspended.
According to reports, the probe was initiated based on intelligence obtained from a global environmental summit. Additional campaigners whose work may be inimical to India's energy security are also said to be under review.
Central Accusation
The enforcement body accused the organization of operating as a cover, publicly projecting itself as a company in organic produce while its "main operation appears to be channelling foreign funds to run narratives furthering the treaty cause in India."
It claimed the company had been unprofitable until 2021, when inflows registered as "consultancy services" turned its fortunes around.
"The agency suspects incorrect reporting and false portrayal of the purpose of the foreign funds. The body is investigating... whether the activities funded were against the national interest," the release concluded.
