Kaleshwaram Irregularities: CBI Probe Sought

In a decisive move signaling a commitment to transparency, the Telangana state cabinet has resolved to seek a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into alleged irregularities surrounding the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy are scheduled to meet with the CBI director to discuss the specifics of this inquiry. This initiative comes on the heels of a previous assembly resolution made nine months ago, urging a thorough investigation into the project that has been mired in controversy since its inception.

The cabinet meeting, which took place under the leadership of Chief Minister Reddy, also focused on crafting a 100-day action plan aimed at addressing the long-standing issue of unpaid retirement benefits for government employees. The outstanding dues, which total a staggering Rs 14,200 crore—Rs 6,200 crore for regular employees and Rs 8,000 crore for retirees—have caused significant distress among the affected individuals and their families. In response, the cabinet outlined strategies to expedite the payment process, including a proposed salary contribution from ministers and public representatives to alleviate the financial burden on the state.

The decision to pursue a CBI investigation into the Kaleshwaram project comes amidst a backdrop of legal complexities following a recent Telangana High Court ruling on the Justice P.C. Ghose Commission's report. During the cabinet discussions, it was made clear that there would be no coercive actions against the former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao or former Minister T. Harish Rao regarding the case, even as the government remains committed to holding accountable those deemed responsible for the alleged misconduct. Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy emphasized the necessity of accountability, asserting that the High Court did not exonerate the individuals involved and that options for further legal recourse are being explored.

Additionally, the cabinet has taken steps to address the ongoing concerns of striking RTC workers, establishing a committee led by Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka to facilitate dialogue with union representatives. The previous administration's failure to distribute retirement benefits has exacerbated the situation, and the current government is keen on resolving these grievances promptly. In a broader initiative, the cabinet has also approved plans for infrastructure development, including the redevelopment of the Gachibowli stadium and the establishment of an integrated aqua park in Mancherial district, reflecting a multifaceted approach to governance that underscores both accountability and progress in Telangana.