Did BRS Leader Harish Rao Testify Before the Ghose Commission Regarding Kaleshwaram Project?
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Synopsis
The ongoing investigation into the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project sees BRS leader T. Harish Rao appear before the Ghose Commission, expressing confidence in justice while facing scrutiny over project irregularities. Discover the implications of this political probe on Telangana's irrigation efforts.
Key Takeaways
- Harish Rao appeared before the Ghose Commission regarding Kaleshwaram project irregularities.
- Commission led by Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose investigates project management.
- Over 100 engineers questioned, revealing procedural lapses.
- Political implications for the BRS government as scrutiny intensifies.
- Commission's term extended to July 31, 2025.
Hyderabad, June 9 (NationPress) Senior Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader and former Telangana Irrigation Minister T. Harish Rao testified before the PC Ghose Commission on Monday as part of the ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities concerning the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP).
Harish Rao arrived at BRK Bhavan, the site for the Commission’s proceedings, accompanied by a show of strength from party leaders and supporters who congregated at Telangana Bhavan to demonstrate their solidarity. BRS working president K.T. Rama Rao met him prior to his testimony to lend support.
The Commission, chaired by retired Supreme Court Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose, is examining possible shortcomings in the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of the Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla barrages within the Kaleshwaram project.
Before giving his statement to the media, Harish Rao expressed that he was completely prepared to respond to all inquiries. "We have absolute faith in the judicial process. The truth will emerge, and justice will be served," he remarked. He further accused the Congress government of acting unjustly toward farmers under the guise of an inquiry.
Rao served as the Irrigation Minister from 2014 to 2018, during which the Kaleshwaram project—recognized as one of the world’s largest lift irrigation schemes—was authorized and implemented by the then BRS government. His testimony is anticipated to concentrate on decisions regarding project approvals, budget allocations, and oversight of execution.
He is the second senior leader to provide testimony before the Commission. Previously, on June 6, BJP MP and former Minister Eatala Rajender appeared before the panel. Rajender, who was responsible for the finance portfolio from 2014 to 2018, distanced himself from decisions related to the project, claiming that financial and construction matters were exclusively managed by the Irrigation Department.
“I had no involvement in the Kaleshwaram project. All decisions were made by the Cabinet based on recommendations from technical committees,” Rajender stated after his testimony. He had also served as Health Minister during BRS’s second term but was removed from the Cabinet by then Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) in 2021 amid land-grab allegations, after which he joined the BJP.
The Commission has also summoned KCR. Initially, he was to appear on June 5 but requested a postponement and is now set to appear on June 11.
Formed in March 2024, the single-member Ghose Commission was established promptly after reports of structural failures at the Medigadda barrage, including the collapse of piers. The Commission’s timeline has been extended seven times, with the most recent extension pushing the deadline to July 31, 2025.
To date, over 100 engineers, both current and retired, have been questioned. Many acknowledged procedural oversights or claimed ignorance regarding significant decisions. The Commission is also reviewing essential documents, including the final report from the National Dam Safety Authority, a Vigilance report, and various government files pertinent to the project.
The latest summons to KCR, Harish Rao, and Rajender was issued a day after the Commission's timeline was extended, indicating the concluding phase of an inquiry that has subjected the flagship BRS-era irrigation project to intense political and legal examination.
Point of View
I emphasize that the investigation into the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project is a critical juncture for transparency in governance. The testimonies of political figures reveal underlying tensions, but the focus must remain on accountability and the welfare of the people of Telangana.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project?
The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project is one of the largest lift irrigation schemes in the world, designed to supply water for irrigation and drinking purposes in Telangana.
Who is T. Harish Rao?
T. Harish Rao is a senior leader of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi and served as the Telangana Irrigation Minister from 2014 to 2018.
What is the Ghose Commission investigating?
The Ghose Commission is investigating alleged irregularities related to the planning, execution, and maintenance of the Kaleshwaram project, specifically examining the Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla barrages.
Why was KCR summoned?
K.C.R. was summoned to provide testimony as part of the ongoing inquiry into the Kaleshwaram project, which has raised significant concerns regarding governance and project management.
What implications does this inquiry have for the BRS government?
The inquiry poses serious implications for the credibility of the BRS government, as it highlights potential lapses in accountability and governance in one of their flagship projects.
