Assam-Born Scientist Denies $250 Million Carbon-Credit Fraud Claims

Tridip Kumar Goswami, a respected scientist originally from Assam’s Nalbari district, has strongly refuted allegations linking him to a carbon credit fraud scheme, dismissing them as part of a broader conspiracy designed to discredit his former employer, Kenneth Newcombe, and drag him into the controversy.

In a recent statement, Goswami expressed his shock at the charges, which allege his involvement in inflating carbon-reduction results tied to environmental projects in Africa and Southeast Asia, amounting to fraudulent credits worth over $250 million. "The news came as a complete surprise, and I have not been contacted by any authorities," Goswami remarked.

He emphasized his clean record during his time at CQC Impact Investors (CQC), a global leader in voluntary carbon credits, from which he resigned over a year ago. "These allegations seem aimed at discrediting my former boss, Kenneth Newcombe, and I have been unjustly dragged into this," he added.

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has accused both Goswami and Newcombe of fraud, claiming they exaggerated the environmental impact of clean cookstove projects between 2021 and 2023. The DOJ alleges that this led to the issuance of inflated carbon credits, but Goswami strongly denies any involvement in illegal activities, citing his distinguished background in the field. Holding a Master’s in Chemistry from Gauhati University and a Master’s in Energy Technology from Tezpur University, Goswami has made notable contributions to hydrogen energy research. He insists that the projects he managed at CQC adhered strictly to international standards and categorically denies any manipulation of data.

"I completely deny any wrongdoing in the projects I oversaw and will provide my account if called upon. These allegations are not only false but also an attempt to damage my reputation and the important work we have done," Goswami declared, emphasizing that he has not been contacted by U.S. authorities but stands ready to defend himself.

While the case is part of a broader crackdown on carbon-credit fraud, there are suggestions that Goswami’s inclusion in the allegations may be politically motivated or a part of broader conspiracy. Some believe that his reputation as one of the only few representatives from Assam at the global stage could be a reason behind the attention he is receiving in the media. The Assam-based scientist, however, remains confident that his innocence will be proven, stating that he has always maintained the highest ethical standards in his work.

CQC itself has not been charged, thanks to its cooperation with investigators, but several former executives, including CEO Kenneth Newcombe, face legal action. Jason Steele, CQC’s former Chief Operating Officer, has pleaded guilty and is reportedly assisting U.S. authorities. Newcombe’s legal team has called the charges "baseless," with Newcombe battling cancer while defending his name.

The case has garnered significant media attention, with national outlets taking particular interest in the involvement of an Assam-born figure. However, question arises whether the intense focus on Goswami could be part of a concerted effort to undermine his success and tarnish Assam’s image.

Notably, during the Pratidin Time's Conclave 2024, top experts engaged in detailed discussions on carbon credits and their significance, yet the national media seemed less inclined to focus on the substantive issues discussed there.

Amid these developments, we are too concerned about this gifted individuals's future, and we urge a careful examination of the facts to ensure that he does not fall victim to an unjust legal battle. While no one is opposing the international judiciary system, there is an overwhelming desire for the truth to come to light and for Goswami’s innocence to be established if he is indeed wrongly accused.

As the case heads to trial, many will be watching closely to see how it unfolds. Goswami remains firm in his stance that the allegations are baseless and driven by ulterior motives. “I have always upheld the highest ethical standards in my work and am eager to provide clarity on this matter,” he concluded.

With the case still under investigation, the focus now shifts to ensuring a fair and impartial inquiry into these allegations. As we follow this story closely, we are committed to uncovering the truth.

Also Read: Conclave 2024: "NE India Most Vulnerable to Climate Change", Experts Stressed