New Delhi, Jan 08, 2026 – Climate activist Harjeet Singh on Wednesday strongly denied claims by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) that his work with the Fossil Fuel Treaty Initiative (FFTI) is detrimental to India’s energy security. Singh described the allegations as “surprising and deeply disturbing,” asserting that his professional advocacy has always aligned with India’s clean energy and climate goals.

“I am utterly surprised and deeply disturbed by the ED’s claim that my association with the Fossil Fuel Treaty Initiative is detrimental to India’s energy security. Nothing could be further from the truth,” Singh said in a statement. “I have consistently applauded the Indian government’s leadership in expanding renewable energy and achieving climate targets nearly five years ahead of schedule.”

Background of the ED Probe

On Monday, the ED conducted searches at Singh’s NGO, Satat Sampada Climate Foundation (SSPL), as part of an investigation into foreign funding exceeding ₹6 crore allegedly received to influence government policy in the energy sector. Sources indicated the agency is examining whether some narratives propagated by the NGO could affect India’s energy strategy.

SSPL clarified that Singh’s international engagements, including travel to Pakistan and Bangladesh, were entirely professional and focused on representing the interests of developing countries while highlighting India’s renewable energy achievements.

“The company was established using the founders’ personal savings and loans, including by mortgaging their only home, reflecting their long-term commitment to environmental and social causes,” the NGO stated. Since leaving full-time employment in 2021, Singh has focused on management advisory work in climate, environment, and disaster response, while continuing to lead SSPL’s sustainability and climate action initiatives alongside his wife, Jyoti Awasthi, the organisation’s CEO.

Arrest and Legal Status

Singh was detained by the Uttar Pradesh Excise Department on the night of January 5, 2026, after approximately 45 liquor bottles were allegedly recovered from his residence without a licence. He was granted bail on January 6 by the Ghaziabad district court. SSPL emphasized full cooperation with authorities during the searches and investigations, citing restrictions on sharing further details while the matter is sub judice.

Advocacy and Response

Singh highlighted that his work has consistently focused on strengthening India’s energy independence through sustainable solutions and ensuring a fair and equitable transition for developing countries.

“My advocacy has always been rooted in strengthening India’s energy independence through clean, affordable, and sustainable solutions. Portraying this work as harmful to India’s energy security is misleading and a serious misrepresentation of our efforts,” Singh said.

SSPL, co-founded by Singh and Awasthi in 2016, promotes organic farming, sustainable development, climate action, and environmentally friendly solutions. Awasthi, with nearly three decades of experience in urban and rural development, oversees operations including farmer engagement, production, digital outreach, and organic farming promotion.

Wider Context

According to HT, several climate activists are under ED scrutiny following intelligence received during the COP30 summit in Brazil. Officials indicated that some activists were allegedly influencing discussions on fossil fuel use and climate finance, which could impact India’s negotiating position.

SSPL reiterated its commitment to full cooperation with the authorities and emphasized that all international advocacy by Singh has been in a professional capacity, aimed at protecting the interests of India and other developing countries in global climate and energy forums.

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