What Happened When Eatala Rajender Faced the Ghose Commission?
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Synopsis
In a significant turn of events, former Telangana Minister Eatala Rajender has appeared before the Ghose Commission to address alleged irregularities in the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project. As the investigation unfolds, the spotlight shines on critical decisions made during the project's construction, raising questions about accountability and governance in Telangana's irrigation projects.
Key Takeaways
- Eatala Rajender has appeared before the Ghose Commission regarding alleged irregularities.
- The Kaleshwaram project cost exceeds Rs one lakh crore.
- The Commission is led by Justice P.C. Ghose.
- It is investigating multiple facets of the project including planning and construction.
- Key political figures, including K. Chandrasekhar Rao, have been summoned.
Hyderabad, June 6 (NationPress) Former Telangana Minister and BJP MP Eatala Rajender appeared on Friday before the Justice P.C. Ghose Commission, which is investigating the alleged irregularities in the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project.
Rajender, who held the position of finance minister in the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government from 2014 to 2019, attended the Commission session at BRK Bhavan.
The Commission is scrutinizing him as part of its inquiry into the purported irregularities linked to the project constructed across the Godavari River at an expenditure exceeding Rs one lakh crore.
It is anticipated that Rajender will be questioned regarding the Cabinet decisions made concerning the project’s construction and the allocation of funds.
Previously, he served as the health minister during the second term of BRS but left the party to join the BJP in 2021 after being dismissed from the Cabinet by then-Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) due to allegations of land grabbing.
The Ghose Commission has also summoned KCR and former Minister T. Harish Rao.
KCR received a notice on May 20, instructing him to appear on June 5; however, he requested a reschedule to June 11.
Harish Rao, who was the irrigation minister from 2014 to 2019, is slated to appear before the Commission on June 9.
Headed by retired Supreme Court judge Pinaki Chandra Ghose, the Commission is investigating the claimed irregularities in the planning, design, construction, quality control, operation, and maintenance of the Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla Barrages of the Kaleshwaram project.
This one-man Commission was established in March 2024, shortly after some piers of the Medigadda Barrage collapsed.
The term of the Commission has been extended multiple times, totaling seven extensions so far, following its original conclusion date of June 30, 2024.
KCR, Harish Rao, and Rajender received notices just a day after the state government prolonged the Commission’s tenure by an additional two months, until July 31, to ensure thorough examination of all involved.
Thus far, the Commission has interviewed over 100 engineers and officials, both retired and active, who were linked to the barrages.
Many engineers admitted to procedural lapses or claimed ignorance regarding decision-making.
The Commission has reviewed various documents, including the final report from the National Dam Safety Authority and the Vigilance report.
Although the panel was expected to submit its findings to the government on May 21 or 22, it opted to question KCR, Harish Rao, and Rajender since most engineers and officials indicated that decisions were made in the presence of the then-chief minister and based on his and the ministers’ directives.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the gravity of the situation surrounding the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project. This investigation not only highlights the need for accountability in governance but also raises critical questions about the decision-making processes that led to significant financial investments in state projects. The outcomes of the Ghose Commission's findings could shape future political narratives and public trust.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project?
The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project is a major irrigation scheme constructed across the Godavari River in Telangana, aimed at enhancing water supply for agricultural and drinking purposes. The project has faced scrutiny over alleged irregularities and financial mismanagement.
Who is Eatala Rajender?
Eatala Rajender is a former Telangana Minister and current Member of Parliament from the BJP. He previously served as the finance minister in the BRS government and was later involved in controversies leading to his resignation from the party.
What is the Ghose Commission investigating?
The Ghose Commission is investigating alleged irregularities in the planning, design, construction, and management of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project, including accountability for financial expenditures.
What has been the response of the BRS government to the Commission?
The BRS government has cooperated with the Ghose Commission, providing information and extending the Commission's term to allow thorough investigations into the project.
What are the implications of the Commission's findings?
The findings of the Ghose Commission could have significant implications for political accountability in Telangana, potentially affecting the reputations of key political figures and the future of governance in the state.
