Former Telangana CM KCR Summoned By Panel Probing Power Sector 'Irregularities' During BRS Regime

The inquiry initiated regarding Bhadradri and Yadadri power plants as well as power purchase agreements with Chhattisgarh government aims to delve into decision-making process during previous regime.

The ongoing probe into alleged irregularities in the power sector during the previous BRS government's tenure has taken a significant turn as the inquiry commission has issued notices to former Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao and several others. The commission, headed by retired Justice L Narasimha Reddy, seeks responses from key figures involved in decision-making during that period.

Justice Narasimha Reddy revealed to reporters in Hyderabad that the commission has identified "25 officials and non-officials" pivotal to the decisions under scrutiny. Rao, among those summoned, requested an extension until the end of July to submit his response. However, considering the limited timeframe available, the commission has mandated a submission deadline of June 15, according to a report on PTI.

The inquiry, initiated following concerns raised about the Bhadradri and Yadadri power plants, as well as power purchase agreements with the Chhattisgarh government, aims to delve into the decision-making process during the previous administration. State Information Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy had announced the formation of the inquiry in March, with Justice Narasimha Reddy appointed to lead it.

Justice Narasimha Reddy hinted at alleged discrepancies in the negotiation instead of tender processes, suggesting that decisions were made by the state government without adhering to established procedures. He further highlighted concerns regarding the use of sub-critical technology in the Bhadradri plant, which not only raised environmental issues but also imposed financial burdens.

The commission's interactions with former senior officials of power utilities have reportedly shed light on the centralisation of decision-making within the government, indicating a lack of autonomy for the utilities.

While details regarding the costs incurred due to power purchase from Chhattisgarh are yet to be fully determined, Justice Narasimha Reddy suggested that the state may have faced substantial financial implications.