Kaleshwaram probe panel grills Somesh, Smita

The Kaleshwaram Commission of Inquiry headed by Justice PC Ghose continued its inquiry into the project, scrutinising the roles of former Chief Secretary Somesh Kumar and IAS officer Smita Sabharwal.
On the second day of open hearings, Commission Chairman PC Ghosh expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of direct answers from Somesh Kumar, while Smita maintained that her involvement in the project was limited.
The Commission took serious note of Somesh Kumar’s delayed entry into the inquiry hall, prompting a sharp rebuke from Chairman Ghose.
Questions centred on permissions given to the three barrages — Medigadda, Sundilla and Annaram — and whether any decisions during Somesh’s tenure as Chief Secretary and Irrigation Secretary deviated from rules.
Responding to queries, Somesh claimed his actions adhered strictly to Cabinet decisions. However, his failure to provide direct answers regarding potential irregularities frustrated the Commission.
Justice Ghose is learnt to have warned, “You are here to answer questions, not debate. Provide straight answers.”
When asked whether any violations occurred during the construction of the three barrages, Somesh repeatedly stated he could not recall citing the passage of time.
Earlier, IAS officer Smita faced questions regarding the same barrages. When asked whether Government Orders (GOs) were issued without Cabinet approval, she said that she was unaware of that. She emphasised that her role as part of the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) was limited to coordination with collectors and taking information to the CM.  “My responsibility was confined to gathering data from districts and ensuring its transmission to the CMO. Any decisions beyond that were outside my purview,” Smita clarified.