Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Secretary K. Rama Krishna Rao wrote to the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) on Wednesday seeking permission to question senior IAS officer Aravind Kumar in the Formula E scam. The request marked a significant step in the state’s investigation into alleged fund diversion during the 2023 Formula E race in Hyderabad.
Officials said the Anti-Corruption Bureau planned to file a chargesheet once DoPT granted prosecution approval. The agency registered a case after discovering that ₹55 crore had moved to a foreign agency in violation of financial rules. The transfer linked directly to the race’s organisation and raised concerns about procedural lapses.
Moreover, the ACB named former minister K.T. Rama Rao as A1, IAS officer Aravind Kumar as A2 and former HMDA chief engineer BLN Reddy as A3. Investigators stated that Aravind Kumar, who earlier served as HMDA Commissioner, diverted funds without Cabinet or Finance Department clearance. They added that he acted during the election code period, which further deepened the irregularities.
DoPT nod central to Formula E scam proceedings
The state government intensified its push because national rules require DoPT approval before prosecuting IAS officers. Therefore, the Chief Secretary’s letter gained importance for the next phase of the Formula E scam probe. Once New Delhi responds, the ACB plans to question Aravind Kumar and proceed with formal charges.
Officials said the inquiry aims to establish a clear trail of decisions that enabled the transfer. Additionally, they are assessing how the funds moved without institutional checks. Further developments are expected after the Centre issues its decision.
