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The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a chargesheet against former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik and five others in connection with alleged corruption in the Rs 2,200-crore Kiru hydropower project, PTI reported.
The charges pertain to irregularities in awarding civil works contracts for the 624 MW Kiru project in Kishtwar district during Malik’s tenure as Governor. The CBI alleges that the contracts were awarded in violation of guidelines, favoring certain private entities, and causing potential losses to the exchequer, PTI said.
According to officials, the chargesheet marks a significant development in a probe that had been ongoing for several months and follows extensive questioning of Malik and several bureaucrats linked to the project.
Background and Political Context
Malik, a former BJP leader and Governor of four states — including Jammu and Kashmir, Goa, Meghalaya, and Bihar — has been a controversial figure, known for his outspoken remarks on matters of national security and governance.
In previous interviews, Malik alleged high-level corruption and mishandling of sensitive national issues, including the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. He claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had asked him to stay silent on intelligence and security lapses related to the incident, suggesting that the government sought to shift the narrative towards Pakistan for political gain.
“These allegations came from someone who held constitutional office and had insider access,” a political analyst said. “It adds a complex layer to the corruption case now unfolding.”
CBI Investigation
The CBI began investigating the Kiru project in 2022, focusing on anomalies in the bidding process and allegations that rules were bypassed to grant contracts to favored firms. The agency has already conducted searches and recorded statements from key figures, including Malik.
The Kiru project is being developed by Chenab Valley Power Projects Private Ltd (CVPPPL), a joint venture between NHPC and Jammu & Kashmir State Power Development Corporation.
