Why Did Telangana Relax the Withdrawal of General Consent to CBI for Kaleshwaram Probe?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, the Telangana government has lifted the ban on CBI investigations, allowing a thorough probe into the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project. This decision, rooted in concerns over alleged irregularities, aims to shed light on significant public fund mismanagement and corruption.
Key Takeaways
- Telangana government has relaxed its ban on CBI investigations.
- Allows probe into Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project irregularities.
- Concerns raised by the P. C. Ghose Commission and NDSA.
- Complexities involve multiple state and central agencies.
- The decision emphasizes the need for transparency in government projects.
Hyderabad, Sep 2 (NationPress) The government of Telangana has eased the restrictions imposed on the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) concerning the general consent for probing cases within the state, enabling the agency to investigate suspected irregularities associated with the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project.
A Government Order (GO) has been released, allowing a one-time relaxation of the previous GO from 2022 that prohibited the CBI from conducting investigations in Telangana.
According to the orders issued by the Home Department, the CBI is now authorized to investigate allegations of irregularities, misappropriation of public funds, and corrupt practices in the construction of the Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla barrages within the Kaleshwaram project.
The decision to transfer the investigation of the Kaleshwaram case to the CBI was made by the Congress government, as disclosed by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy during a lengthy discussion in the state Assembly regarding the findings of the P. C. Ghose Commission, which examined the allegations of irregularities in the project developed under the governance of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) across the Godavari River.
The GO references both the interim and final reports of the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) concerning the collapse of six piers of the Medigadda barrage on October 21, 2023. The NDSA concluded that the failure resulted from a mix of factors, including deficiencies in planning, design, quality control, and construction.
Furthermore, the GO mentioned that the State government appointed the P. C. Ghose Commission in March 2024, which submitted its report on July 31, 2025, identifying several lapses and irregularities that necessitate serious criminal action.
During the discussion held on August 31, the report was presented in the Assembly, revealing that the findings from the NDSA and Ghose Commission justify a comprehensive investigation. It was highlighted that the project involves intricate inter-state concerns and the collaboration of multiple state and Central government departments and agencies. Given the complexities, including the involvement of Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs) in the project’s design and execution, it was deemed suitable to assign the investigation to the CBI, leading to the decision outlined in the GO.
Notably, the general consent for the CBI to conduct investigations in Telangana was rescinded on August 30, 2022, during the tenure of the BRS government.
Point of View
This decision by the Telangana government to grant the CBI permission for a probe into the Kaleshwaram project underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in public projects. The findings of the Ghose Commission and NDSA raise significant concerns that must be addressed to restore public trust. The involvement of multiple state and central agencies highlights the complexity of governance and the need for robust oversight.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project?
The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project is a large-scale irrigation initiative aimed at providing water for agricultural and drinking purposes across various regions of Telangana.
Why was the general consent to the CBI withdrawn?
The general consent to the CBI was withdrawn in August 2022 by the previous government, limiting the agency's ability to investigate cases in Telangana.
What prompted the Telangana government to change its decision?
The Telangana government decided to grant the CBI access following findings from the P. C. Ghose Commission and concerns raised by the National Dam Safety Authority regarding irregularities in the project.
What are the implications of this investigation?
The investigation aims to uncover any potential corruption and mismanagement of public funds, which is crucial for maintaining accountability in government projects.
How will this affect the Kaleshwaram project moving forward?
The outcome of the investigation may lead to legal action against individuals involved in misconduct, and it could impact the future management and funding of the Kaleshwaram project.
