The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a chargesheet against former Jammu & Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik, along with six others, in a corruption case. This involves alleged irregularities in the civil works tenders of the Kiru Hydroelectric Power Project, which cost INR 2200 crore. According to the CBI investigation, irregularities were found in awarding the contracts for the Kiru Project.
What is the Case About?
The Kiru Hydropower Project is situated in the Kishtwar district of Jammu & Kashmir. The project is executed by Chenab Valley Power Projects Private Limited (CVPPPL). The CBI's investigation revealed significant irregularities in the tendering process for the project's civil works. It was decided in CVPPPL's 47th board meeting that the tender process would be redone through e-tendering and reverse auction, but this was not implemented. Instead, the contract was directly awarded to Patel Engineering Limited.
CBI Raids Conducted
In February 2024, the CBI conducted searches at over 30 locations, including Satya Pal Malik's residences in Delhi and premises in Jammu & Kashmir. These raids targeted Satya Pal Malik's associates and officials linked to the project's executing agency, Chenab Valley Power Projects Power Limited.
Who is Under Investigation?
The CBI's investigation has named several individuals, including Satya Pal Malik, former CVPPPL chairman Naveen Kumar Choudhary, former officials M S Babu, M K Mittal, and Arun Kumar Mishra, along with Patel Engineering Limited, the firm that received the contract.
Contract Awarded to Patel Engineering Limited
Despite the decision in CVPPPL's 47th board meeting to retender the project via reverse auction and e-tendering, this was not followed, and the contract was granted to Patel Engineering Limited.
CBI Investigation and Chargesheet
Satya Pal Malik had previously denied any wrongdoing and criticized the raids, claiming they were an attempt to intimidate him. Following public allegations by Satya Pal Malik related to bribery offers, the CBI registered a case in April 2022. The investigation uncovered evidence indicative of corrupt practices in awarding the contract, leading to the filing of chargesheets.
Satya Pal Malik's Claim
Satya Pal Malik, who served as the Governor of Jammu & Kashmir between August 23, 2018, and October 30, 2019, claimed he was offered a bribe of INR 300 crore to approve two files related to the project during his tenure as Governor.
