The Kaleshwaram Judicial Commission, headed by Justice P.C. Ghose, is continuing its investigation into financial irregularities and procedural issues in the construction of the Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla barrages. On Tuesday, Finance Special Secretary Ramakrishna Rao appeared before the commission after being summoned on Monday. Justice Ghose questioned him about the release of funds and how contractors were selected. These questions were based on an affidavit submitted by Rao, which detailed financial transactions related to the project.
Officials from the Navayuga Construction Agency were also questioned during the day. The commission is looking into claims that rules were broken when contracts were awarded and funds were released for the barrages. Over the next three days, former officials from the State Water Resources Development Corporation, including its ex-chairman V. Prakash, along with other contractors involved in the project, are expected to provide their testimonies.
Key documents from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), Vigilance Department, NDSA, and the Irrigation Department have been obtained by the commission. These documents are being compared with affidavits and testimonies to identify any inconsistencies. Early findings suggest there were lapses in procedures, particularly in how funds were allocated and contractors were replaced during the project.
The commission resumed its inquiry on Monday and is working under a strict timeline, as its current term ends next month. However, there is a possibility that its term may be extended by two months to ensure a thorough investigation. Public hearings are expected to conclude by the first week of February, with the final report likely to be submitted to the government by March.
This ongoing inquiry is focused on uncovering irregularities in one of Telangana’s largest irrigation projects. Further testimonies and document reviews are scheduled in the coming days, with more findings expected soon.
