PNS|Hyderabad
The Justice PC Ghose Commission of Inquiry has issued notices to former Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao, former Irrigation Minister T. Harish Rao, and former Finance Minister Eatala Rajendar in connection with the probe into the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP).
The three top leaders of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) are the first politicians to be summoned for cross-examination in the inquiry.
The commission, which is investigating the alleged irregularities in the multi-crore irrigation project, has asked KCR to appear on June 5, Harish Rao on June 6, and Eatala Rajendar on June 9. They have also been directed to respond to the notices within 15 days, confirming their willingness to attend the cross-examination, sources said.
The issuance of these notices marks a crucial phase in the Commission’s proceedings, which began examining the project after structural damage was reported at the Medigadda Barrage. The Medigadda Barrage, a key component of Kaleshwaram, developed cracks and stability issues in late 2023, leading to widespread scrutiny of both the design and execution of the project.
Both Harish Rao and Eatala’s office said that the notices have not yet been received physically.
While the Congress Government has maintained that the inquiry is aimed at uncovering the truth behind the lapses, the BRS has described it as a political witch hunt.
Reacting to the development, BRS MLC Kavitha termed the move a “calculated conspiracy” to malign a leader who had devoted his life to Telangana.
“Kaleshwaram was built for farmers and future generations. This visionless regime is targeting KCR for political gain,” she said, adding that no government can erase his legacy.
Harish Rao met KCR at Erravelli Residence. It is learnt that Harish Rao is fully prepared to face the commission. However, uncertainty exists over whether KCR will take legal recourse or attend the cross examination.
