Hyderabad – The state government has extended the tenure of the Justice PC Ghose Commission by two more months, until July 31, 2025. This move clears the way for the panel to summon former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) and former Irrigation Minister T. Harish Rao for questioning in connection with the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project.
The commission is investigating serious allegations of corruption and irregularities in the construction of the Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla barrages, which are key parts of the massive irrigation project. Initially, the panel planned to complete its inquiry and submit its report by the end of May, as its term was set to expire on June 1.
However, delays in questioning top leaders involved in the project forced a change. The extension was granted after the commission requested more time to complete its probe properly. So far, it has examined senior irrigation department officials, former government secretaries, the Finance Secretary, and representatives from construction companies. It has also reviewed reports from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) and checked how loans taken from financial institutions were used.
Sources close to the inquiry revealed that Justice Ghose is preparing a schedule to summon KCR and Harish Rao by the end of May or the first week of June. The panel is also considering calling BJP MP Eatala Rajender, who served as the Finance Minister during the time the BRS government (formerly TRS) approved and funded the project.
Officials say that understanding KCR and Harish Rao’s roles in the design, construction, and maintenance of the project is key to the investigation. The commission wants to question them about decisions that may have contributed to the reported damage to the three barrages. They will also be asked to clarify statements made by irrigation officials during earlier testimony.
According to insiders, over 80% of the final report is already written. The remaining details will be completed after hearing from the former BRS leaders. If needed, the commission is even willing to visit KCR’s farmhouse for questioning, should he decline to appear at the official office.
This development marks a crucial phase in the inquiry, as the panel moves closer to uncovering the truth behind one of Telangana’s most expensive and controversial infrastructure projects.
