Did Corruption Emerge in the Kiru Hydropower Project? CBI Charges Against Satya Pal Malik
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Synopsis
The CBI's recent chargesheet against Satya Pal Malik and others raises serious concerns over corruption in the Kiru hydroelectric power project. Allegations of kickbacks and substandard work have surfaced, prompting investigations into the project's integrity and transparency. Discover the details behind this unfolding scandal.
Key Takeaways
- CBI chargesheet filed against Malik and others.
- Allegations of kickbacks and corruption in project contracts.
- Patel Engineering's role under scrutiny.
- Investigations highlight the need for transparency.
- Kiru project aims for 624 MW capacity by July 2025.
Jammu, May 22 (NationPress) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has submitted a chargesheet against former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik along with five other individuals in connection with alleged kickbacks related to the Kiru hydroelectric power project. In 2022, the Jammu and Kashmir government sought a CBI inquiry into suspected corruption regarding the allocation of a Rs 2,200 crore contract for civil works associated with the Kiru hydroelectric power initiative.
In 2024, the CBI executed searches across eight locations in both Delhi and Jammu.
Notably, concerns surrounding kickbacks in this contract's allocation were initially raised by Malik himself during his tenure as the Jammu and Kashmir Governor from August 23, 2018 to October 30, 2029.
Malik alleged that he was offered a bribe of Rs 300 crore to authorize two files, one of which was related to the Kiru hydroelectric project.
He stated that he declined to accept the bribe.
The awarding of civil works to Patel Engineering Ltd, a prominent infrastructure company founded in 1949, has come under scrutiny.
The CBI has initiated action against the then chairman, managing director, and directors of Chenab Valley Power Projects Private Limited (CVPPPL), alongside Patel Engineering.
The FIR indicated that an investigation was conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau and the Power Department, with allegations that e-tendering guidelines were not adhered to during the awarding of civil works for the project.
Furthermore, accusations of subpar work and failure to create job opportunities for local youth have been levied against the hydropower project.
The Kiru hydroelectric power project represents a run-of-the-river scheme developed along the Chenab River in the Kishtwar Tehsil of Kishtwar district in Jammu and Kashmir. Construction is taking place between the Kirthai II (upstream) and Kwar (downstream) hydroelectric stations.
This project is a joint effort by Chenab Valley Power Projects, comprising National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC, 49%), Jammu and Kashmir State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC, 49%), and Power Trading Corporation (PTC, 2%).
It is estimated to cost Rs 4,287 crore and has a planned capacity of 624 MW. The project received scoping clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) in 2008.
Environmental clearance was granted in 2016, and the project was approved by the State Administrative Council (SAC) in 2019.
The foundation stone for the hydroelectric power plant was laid in 2019, with the targeted date for initiating commercial operations set for July 2025.
Point of View
It is crucial to uphold the principles of integrity and transparency in governance. The CBI's chargesheet against Malik highlights the necessity for thorough investigations in cases of alleged corruption, ensuring that justice prevails and public trust is restored in public projects and officials.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kiru hydropower project?
The Kiru hydroelectric power project is a run-of-the-river scheme being developed on the Chenab River in Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir, with an estimated cost of Rs 4,287 crore and an installed capacity of 624 MW.
Why was Satya Pal Malik charged?
Satya Pal Malik was charged by the CBI due to allegations of accepting bribes and involvement in corrupt practices during the awarding of contracts for the Kiru hydroelectric power project.
What were the allegations against Patel Engineering?
Patel Engineering Ltd has been implicated in the case due to allegations of irregularities in the contract awarding process and substandard work associated with the Kiru hydroelectric power project.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The CBI has filed a chargesheet and conducted searches at multiple locations. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the corruption surrounding the project.
When is the Kiru project expected to be operational?
The Kiru hydroelectric power project aims to commence commercial operations by July 2025.
