Image Source : CNBC TV18
Vedanta Ltd shares slipped 1.1 percent on September 17, 2025, following renewed objections from the Indian government regarding the company’s proposed demerger plan. The stock traded lower amid reports that the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and other regulatory bodies have reiterated concerns before the National Company Law Tribunal, raising fresh doubts about the viability and transparency of the restructuring scheme.
The demerger, which aims to split Vedanta into four independently listed entities focused on aluminium, oil and gas, power, and base metals, has faced persistent scrutiny since its announcement. While Vedanta maintains that the move will unlock shareholder value and streamline operations, regulators have flagged multiple red flags, including financial risks, inadequate disclosures, and potential violations of securities norms.
Key Highlights From The Regulatory Pushback
- Vedanta shares fell 1.1 percent amid renewed government objections to its demerger plan
- Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas raised concerns over misrepresentation of hydrocarbon assets
- Government flagged risks to recovery of dues and potential liquidation of Malco Energy post-demerger
- SEBI issued a warning over post-approval modifications to the demerger scheme
- NCLT hearing deferred to allow further examination of regulatory submissions
- Vedanta’s stock has declined nearly 17 percent from its 52-week high
Government’s Position And Legal Arguments
The government’s latest submission to the NCLT argues that Vedanta’s demerger scheme may be structured to frustrate the recovery of outstanding dues. Officials have questioned the sustainability of the demerged entities, particularly Malco Energy, which they claim could face liquidation due to weak financials.
Additionally, the Ministry has raised concerns about the misrepresentation of hydrocarbon assets and insufficient disclosure of liabilities. These issues, they argue, could compromise transparency and violate SEBI’s disclosure norms. The tribunal has been urged to examine whether the restructuring is in the public interest and whether it complies with corporate governance standards.
SEBI’s Warning And Compliance Concerns
The Securities and Exchange Board of India has also weighed in, issuing an administrative warning to Vedanta for altering its demerger scheme after receiving regulatory approvals. SEBI noted that such changes constitute a breach of its master circular and undermine investor protection protocols.
The regulator’s intervention adds another layer of complexity to the restructuring process, which now faces heightened scrutiny from multiple fronts. SEBI has asked Vedanta to submit revised disclosures and clarify the rationale behind the modifications.
Market Reaction And Investor Sentiment
Vedanta’s stock closed 1.1 percent lower on the NSE, underperforming the broader Nifty50 index, which ended the day in positive territory. The sell-off reflects growing investor anxiety over regulatory hurdles and the potential delay or derailment of the demerger.
Intraday trading saw the stock dip as much as 4 percent before recovering slightly, with volumes spiking above the 30-day average. Analysts noted that while the demerger could unlock long-term value, the current regulatory overhang poses short-term risks to sentiment and valuation.
Strategic Implications And Outlook
Vedanta’s demerger is part of a broader strategy to simplify its corporate structure and improve operational focus across its diverse business verticals. The company has argued that separate listings will enhance transparency, attract sector-specific investors, and improve capital allocation.
However, the regulatory objections have cast a shadow over these ambitions. The NCLT’s decision will be pivotal in determining the future of the restructuring, and Vedanta may need to revise its scheme or provide additional assurances to address stakeholder concerns.
Sources: Business Upturn, Mint, SRK Nation
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