Investigation into Revanth's Activities Marks a Double-whammy

The Chief Minister of Telangana, A. Revanth Reddy, is taking decisive action to investigate corrupt politicians and bureaucrats involved in the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Scheme (KLIS), a project with a staggering cost of Rs.1.45 lakh crore.

The Telangana Assembly has ordered a CBI probe into the KLIS, focusing on alleged irregularities and potential swindling of funds. The Comptroller and Auditor General has indicated swindling of at least Rs.45,000 crore in the project.

Justice P.C. Ghose, a former Supreme Court judge, headed a judicial commission investigating the scheme. The commission focused on the three damaged barrages at Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla, which cost approximately Rs.7,000 crore. The investigation revealed that the redesigning of the Pranahita-Chevella Srujala Sravanti (PCSS) into the KLIS was done without scientific data, causing a cost escalation from Rs.38,000 crore to Rs.1.45 lakh crore.

Mr. Revanth Reddy has left the responsibility of proving irregularities and punishing the guilty to the CBI and the judiciary. He is taking steps to avoid being labeled a "witch-hunt" while pursuing the investigation.

There are speculations of a potential political understanding between the BRS and BJP, but Mr. Revanth Reddy has expressed skepticism, stating that the BJP should ensure the CBI probe is carried out thoroughly against its potential ally. The BRS supremo, K. Chandrashekar Rao, is reported to be the person who transformed the controversial KLIS and likely caused the cost escalation.

Mr. Revanth Reddy has also criticised his predecessor, Chandrashekar Rao, stating that the people have already punished him and his confinement to his farmhouse is akin to being in jail. He has not made any new statements regarding the attempts by the BRS supremo to scuttle further action through the judiciary on technical grounds.

The CBI probe, requested by the BRS, is expected to have a wider scope, covering more expensive aspects like the pump houses and other constructions, beyond the damaged barrages at Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla. The investigation into the KLIS is a significant step towards accountability and transparency in Telangana's political and administrative spheres.