Telangana on Adani Donation: The Telangana government has turned down a Rs 100 crore donation from the Adani Foundation for the Young India Skills University, citing "present circumstances and arising controversies." 

The decision was officially communicated through a letter from Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary and Government Commissioner for Industrial Promotion, to Priti Adani, Chairperson of the Adani Foundation.  

In his letter, Ranjan thanked the Adani Foundation's Priti Adani for the commitment made by but confirmed that the state, under instructions from Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, would not proceed with accepting the funds. 

The letter also noted that while the university recently secured IT exemption under Section 80G, making donations eligible for tax benefits, the government has chosen not to pursue the transfer of funds.  

"We are thankful to you for committing Rs 100 cr to Young India Skills University on behalf of your Foundation vide your letter dated 18.10.2024. We have so far not asked any of the donors for a physical transfer of funds since the University had not received the IT exemption under section 80G. Though this exemption order has now come recently, I have been instructed by the Chief Minister not to seek a transfer of funds in view of the present circumstances and arising controversies," the letter read. 

Chief Minister Confirms Decision  

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy reaffirmed the government's stance. Addressing the media, Reddy stated, "Many companies have contributed to the Young India Skills University. Similarly, the Adani Group had also committed Rs 100 crore. However, we have written to the Adani Group on behalf of the government, stating that we are not ready to accept the Rs 100 crore donation."  

The Chief Minister reiterated the government's position, saying, "I like to reiterate the decision by the state govt to not accept the Rs 100 crores from Adani group."  

The development comes amid heightened scrutiny and controversies surrounding the Adani Group in the United States.