Hyderabad: Telangana High Court on Tuesday deferred the Kaleshwaram commission report verdict after hearing petitions challenging the findings of the Justice P.C. Ghose Commission.
The court examined arguments from both petitioners and the state government before posting the matter to April 22. Earlier, it had reserved its order following detailed submissions on the validity of the inquiry process.
Senior leaders including K. Chandrashekar Rao and T. Harish Rao moved the court against the commission’s findings. They argued that authorities did not properly consider their submissions during the inquiry. Moreover, they claimed the process violated principles of natural justice.
Court hearing deepens dispute over Kaleshwaram commission report
The Congress government had constituted the commission to probe alleged irregularities in the Kaleshwaram irrigation project. The inquiry focused on issues such as the sinking of the Medigadda barrage and alleged misuse of public funds.
Along with political leaders, IAS officer Smita Sabharwal and former Chief Secretary S. K. Joshi also approached the court. They sought to set aside the findings, citing procedural lapses and lack of fair hearing.
During the proceedings, both sides presented extensive legal arguments. While petitioners questioned the credibility of the inquiry, the government defended the commission’s process and conclusions. However, the bench chose not to deliver its verdict immediately.
As a result, the verdict now stands adjourned to April 22, extending uncertainty over the outcome of the probe. The case remains significant as it concerns a major irrigation project built during the previous BRS government.
The final ruling is expected to clarify the legal standing of the commission’s findings. It may also influence further action related to alleged irregularities in the project.
