In a significant development, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) carried out raids on Thursday, February 22, targeting the residence of former governor Satya Pal Malik in connection with the Kiru Hydropower project. This move comes amidst allegations of corruption amounting to Rs 2,200 crore in the awarding of civil works for the project.
The PTI reported that the raids extended to Malik’s house and 29 other premises across various cities, marking a concerted effort by the investigative agency to delve into the intricacies of the case. The probe revolves around purported irregularities in the allocation of contracts related to the Kiru Hydropower project.
Satya Pal Malik, who served as the governor of Jammu and Kashmir from August 23, 2018, to October 30, 2019, finds himself embroiled in controversy as allegations of bribery surface. During his tenure as governor, Malik had publicly disclosed an alleged attempt to bribe him with Rs 300 crore to expedite approvals, including those concerning the aforementioned project.
The CBI’s investigations have expanded to encompass several key figures, including former chairman of the Chenab Valley Power Projects (P) Ltd, Navin Kumar Chaudhary, and other former officials associated with the project. The FIR filed by the CBI highlights discrepancies in the tendering process, raising questions about the transparency and integrity of the procurement procedures.
Notably, this isn’t the first instance of scrutiny surrounding the Kiru Hydropower project. Earlier searches conducted by the CBI in January targeted individuals allegedly linked to the case, signaling a concerted effort to unearth the truth behind the alleged malpractices.
Amidst the unfolding investigations, voices have emerged alleging political motivations behind the scrutiny faced by Satya Pal Malik. Some assert that Malik’s outspoken criticism of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the Centre and Prime Minister Narendra Modi might have contributed to the targeting.
As the CBI delves deeper into the intricacies of the case, the spotlight remains on the pursuit of justice and the unraveling of alleged corruption entwined within the corridors of power. The outcome of these investigations will not only shape the trajectory of the Kiru Hydropower project but also underscore the imperative of accountability and transparency in governance.
