The CBI has filed a chargesheet against former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satyapal Malik, accusing him of corruption in the ₹2,200 crore Kiru Hydro Project.
Jammu-Kashmir: Former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satyapal Malik's troubles seem to be mounting. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a chargesheet against him in a high-profile corruption case related to the Kiru Hydroelectric Power Project. Allegations of irregularities in the ₹2,200 crore civil works contract are at the heart of the matter.
The CBI has filed the chargesheet in a trial court against a total of six individuals, prominently including Satyapal Malik.
What is the case about?
The case centers around the Kiru Hydroelectric Power Project, under construction on the Chenab River in Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir. This ambitious project, with a total capacity of 624 megawatts, is being developed by Chenab Valley Power Projects Private Limited (CVPPPL).
The project is a joint venture with NHPC, a central government company, holding a 51% stake, and the Jammu and Kashmir State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC) holding the remaining 49%. The total project cost is approximately ₹4,287 crore, with the ₹2,200 crore civil works contract being the subject of controversy.
Satyapal Malik's Significant Claim
While serving as the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir from August 2018 to October 2019, Satyapal Malik publicly revealed that he was offered a bribe of ₹300 crore to approve files related to this project. This statement brought the case into the limelight.
The CBI launched its investigation in April 2022 at the request of the Jammu and Kashmir administration. The investigation uncovered serious irregularities in the tendering process.
Where did the irregularities occur?
The CBI investigation revealed that the 47th board meeting of CVPPPL decided to re-tender the civil works contract through e-tendering and reverse auction. However, in the subsequent 48th board meeting, this decision was reversed, and the contract was awarded to Patel Engineering Limited without re-tendering.
Who is named in the CBI chargesheet?
Besides Satyapal Malik, the CBI chargesheet names several former officials of Chenab Valley Power Projects Limited and individuals associated with Patel Engineering Limited. The investigating agency believes that there was a deliberate disregard for regulations in the awarding of the contract, benefiting certain companies.
