Law enforcement conducted a search at the home of a leading climate campaigner in India, over claims that his advocacy for a treaty to reduce coal, oil, and gas use was harming the country's strategic goals.
Probe into International Finances and Alleged Misdeclaration
Investigators claim that the activist, the individual, and his wife, his partner, founders of an entity called Nature Forever, were received nearly £500,000 to promote the FFNPT initiative.
"Although framed as a environmental effort, its implementation could expose India to legal challenges in global courts and severely compromise the nation’s access to energy and economic development," stated investigators.
The investigative body, which falls under the ministry of finance, stated it carried out searches as part of an ongoing investigation into questionable international money transfers obtained under the guise of service fees.
"Further checking of documents suggests that the funds were actually intended to advance the agenda of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty within India," the agency added.
Understanding the Treaty Initiative
The FFNPT is an international campaign that advocates for a pact to halt exploration for new oil and gas reserves and to systematically reduce their use.
Initially supported by Pacific Island nations such as Vanuatu and Tuvalu, it now boasts the support of several countries, the World Health Organization, and the European parliament.
Additional Allegations and Arrest
During the search, officers said they discovered a "large cache" of whiskey above legal limits at the campaigner's residence.
This led to local police detaining and then releasing him.
The investigation body also stated it was investigating trips made to neighboring countries last year, including their financial backing.
Response from the Activists
In a statement, the individuals stated they were legally barred from discussing specifics of the matter but asserted: "We categorically state that the allegations being circulated are baseless, prejudiced and inaccurate."
They explained that they had founded their organization with their own savings and borrowed money in 2016, and that its advisory work expanded in 2021.
"His work and efforts are widely recorded across various media platforms, as well as open forums," they said.
Broader Context for Activist Groups
The campaigner is a known presence at international climate negotiations, having worked with various NGOs for more than two decades.
During the current administration, non-profit groups in India have encountered severe pressures. A large number of licenses to accept foreign funding have been suspended.
As per accounts, the investigation began based on intelligence received from a recent international climate conference. Additional campaigners whose work may be against India's energy security are also said to be under investigation.
Agency's Core Allegation
The investigative agency alleged the entity of functioning as a cover, outwardly presenting itself as a company in sustainable agriculture while its "primary activity appears to be directing international money to promote messaging supporting the treaty cause in India."
It stated the company had been running at a loss until 2021, when payments registered as "professional fees" changed its financial situation.
"The agency suspects mis-declaration and false portrayal of the purpose of the international finances. The agency is examining... whether the activities funded were contrary to the national interest," the release concluded.
