PNS|Hyderabad
BRS supremo K. Chandrasekhar Rao has decided to appear before the Justice PC Ghose-led Commission probing alleged irregularities in the execution of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP). The move comes after weeks of deliberations and consultations with legal experts, according to sources close to the BRS.
KCR is expected to present himself before the Commission on June 5. Notices were earlier issued to KCR along with former ministers Eatela Rajender and Harish Rao, who have also reportedly agreed to appear. Eatela is scheduled to appear on June 9, and Harish Rao on June 6. Harish Rao is fully prepared to appear before the Commission.
The Commission, set up to examine financial and procedural lapses in the Kaleshwaram Project, has been in operation for over 14 months and has already examined 200 officials, including 25 senior IAS officers. Many of these officials are said to have referred to the roles played by KCR, Harish Rao, and Eatela Rajender during the project’s execution.
BRS leaders believe that KCR’s personal appearance is necessary to counter any negative public perception that may arise if senior figures of the BRS administration were seen avoiding the inquiry. “Avoiding the Commission would send the wrong signal,” sources said.
The Justice Ghose Commission has already noted procedural violations and potential financial irregularities, based on preliminary testimonies. The Congress has repeatedly accused the BRS government of large-scale corruption in the Kaleshwaram project, turning it into a political flashpoint.
KCR’s appearance before the Commission marks the first such instance where the former CM will publicly defend his government’s decisions.
