Revanth Reddy criticises KCR for resisting investigation into power project irregularities

HYDERABAD: Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy accused the previous BRS regime of massive corruption in the establishment of power plants.

During discussions on the demands for grants for the electricity department in the Telangana Legislative Assembly on Monday, Revanth Reddy highlighted significant cost escalations in projects like the Yadadri power plant in Nalgonda district, where the estimated cost rose from Rs 25,000 crore to Rs 40,000 crore, potentially increasing the cost per megawatt to Rs 2.5 crore.

Revanth Reddy announced that a commission had been formed to investigate alleged irregularities in the Bhadradri and Yadadri power plants. He questioned why BRS leaders approached the court to dismiss the commission if no irregularities existed, specifically pointing to former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao and former electricity minister Jagadish Reddy.

The Chief Minister emphasised that the government established the commission in response to demands from BRS leaders to investigate alleged corruption in electricity purchases from Chhattisgarh and the construction of power plants. A new chairman for the commission was expected to be appointed soon to continue the investigation.

Revanth Reddy claimed that the commission had summoned KCR and Jagadish Reddy, who hesitated to appear, possibly fearing the exposure of the truth. He also credited former Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy for policies that increased Hyderabad's revenue and Jaipal Reddy for ensuring a fair division of electricity resources post-bifurcation.

The Chief Minister accused the BRS government of awarding contracts to benami individuals associated with the party, leading to corruption worth thousands of crores. He urged BRS leaders to present their case before the commission and prove their innocence. The Supreme Court recently dismissed a plea by KCR to disband the commission, mandating the continuation of the investigation.

Revanth Reddy criticised the delayed completion of the Bhadradri and Yadadri power projects, alleging that outdated technology and poor planning contributed to the delays. He also noted that most solar power in the state was generated by private companies, not the government.

The investigation focused on alleged corruption in awarding contracts for the Yadadri project, including a reported Rs 8,000 crore scam involving BHEL. The Bhadradri project, awarded to India Bulls Company, also faced scrutiny for using outdated technology, leading to delays and a probe involving 16 officials.

Revanth Reddy accused the opposition of hypocrisy, noting that they initially demanded the investigation but later opposed it. He reiterated the government's commitment to a transparent inquiry, with a new chairman for the commission to be appointed soon.