Kaleshwaram Project Notices to KCR and former Ministers: Inquiry Timeline
Justice P.C. Ghose’s judicial commission has issued Kaleshwaram Project notices to KCR and former ministers including Harish Rao and Etela Rajender. These notices are related to the investigation of the multi-crore Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project in Telangana.
K. Chandrashekar Rao, former Chief Minister and Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) chief, has been summoned to appear before the commission on June 5. Harish Rao, who served as Irrigation Minister during K. Chandrashekar Rao’s tenure, has been directed to appear on June 6, while former Finance Minister and current BJP Member of Parliament Etela Rajender has been asked to attend on June 9.
The summons were issued to seek clarification on several operational, financial, and technical aspects of the Kaleshwaram Project. The commission has instructed all individuals to appear within 15 days from receiving the notice to present their statements.
Scope of the Kaleshwaram Inquiry
The Telangana Government formed this judicial inquiry commission in March 2024 under the leadership of Justice P.C. Ghose, a former Supreme Court judge, following concerns over the Medigadda Barrage’s structural safety. The investigation has now expanded to cover the Annaram and Sundilla barrages as well.
The commission is reviewing issues related to design, construction, quality control, financial accountability, and the role of senior officials in the Irrigation and Finance Departments. It is also questioning representatives from construction companies involved in the project.
To facilitate a comprehensive probe, the government has extended the commission’s tenure seven times, allowing continued scrutiny of the issues raised.
FAQs
What is the Kaleshwaram Project?
The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project is a multi-stage irrigation initiative in Telangana designed to lift water from the Godavari River for agricultural and drinking purposes.
Why were notices sent to KCR and others?
Notices were issued by the inquiry commission seeking their response regarding administrative and technical decisions made during the execution of the Kaleshwaram Project.
Who is leading the inquiry?
The commission is headed by Justice P.C. Ghose, a former Supreme Court judge.