Telangana Government Orders CBI Probe into Kaleshwaram Project Irregularities
The Telangana government has ordered the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe alleged irregularities in the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project, a flagship initiative of the previous BRS government. The decision followed a heated Assembly debate on the findings of the Justice P.C. Ghose Commission report, which indicted former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao and other officials. The BRS has condemned the report as politically motivated, while the government moves forward with a central investigation into the multi-crore project.
Unpacked:
The allegations include financial mismanagement, cost overruns, substandard construction, and possible corruption involving top officials and contractors. The Justice P.C. Ghose Commission report specifically indicted former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao and other officials, highlighting serious procedural and administrative lapses.
It is the world’s largest multi-stage lift irrigation project, designed to provide irrigation, drinking water, and industrial supply across 13 districts, aiming to transform Telangana into an agricultural powerhouse and ensure water security for millions.
The Commission reportedly found evidence of irregularities in project implementation, including inflated costs, administrative violations, and lack of transparency in awarding contracts. These findings prompted heated debate and led the government to request a CBI investigation.
The BRS has strongly condemned the Justice P.C. Ghose Commission report, describing it as politically motivated and an attempt to target former leaders. The party claims the investigation is intended to discredit their achievements and insists the project benefited Telangana significantly.