**K Chandrashekar Rao Faces Inquiry Over Kaleshwaram Project Irregularities**
Former Telangana Chief Minister and Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) president K Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) recently appeared before the PC Ghose Commission, which is investigating alleged irregularities in the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project. This judicial commission has been examining the multi-crore project for nearly a year, focusing on both financial and technical discrepancies related to its construction.
The Kaleshwaram project, developed during the previous BRS administration at a cost exceeding Rs 1 lakh crore, has faced scrutiny due to structural concerns, including reports of sinking piers at the Medigadda barrage. The commission has already interrogated several engineers and officials from the irrigation department. Notably, BRS legislator and KCR’s nephew, T Harish Rao, who served as the Irrigation Minister in the former government, testified before the panel on June 9. Prior to that, BJP MP Eatala Rajender, who held the Finance Minister position during the BRS tenure, appeared before the commission on June 6.
The structural issues of the Kaleshwaram barrages became a significant political topic during the 2023 Telangana Assembly elections. Telangana Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy referred to the project as “probably the biggest man-made disaster in the country,” citing findings from the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA). In response, former Irrigation Minister Harish Rao defended the project, asserting that while the Medigadda barrage faced issues, all other components remain intact and operational.
BRS working president KT Rama Rao (KTR) staunchly defended his father, KCR, and criticized both the ruling Congress and the BJP. He described the commission as a diversionary tactic against the government, which he accused of operating on corrupt practices. KTR emphasized the Kaleshwaram project as the world’s largest irrigation initiative, completed in just four years to irrigate 45 lakh acres. He alleged a political conspiracy aimed at undermining the BRS, asserting that both Prime Minister Modi and Congress leader Revanth Reddy are attempting to dismantle the party.
KTR highlighted KCR’s legacy and achievements, stating, “He did a miracle that wasn’t possible for 60 years. He quenched the thirst of Telangana with Kaleshwaram.” He further criticized the Congress, claiming they could not achieve even a fraction of what KCR has done for the state.
A significant gathering of BRS leaders and supporters was observed outside the party headquarters in Hyderabad ahead of KCR’s scheduled appearance, with heavy police presence ensuring order.
**FAQ**
**What is the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project?**
The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project is a major irrigation initiative in Telangana, aimed at providing water to agricultural lands. It has been under scrutiny for alleged irregularities and structural issues since its construction.