KCR, Harish Rao huddle for four-hour meet ahead of Kaleswaram inquiry summons

Hyderabad: In what is being viewed as a crucial political and legal huddle, BRS president and former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) held a four-hour-long meeting with senior party leader and former minister T. Harish Rao at his farmhouse in Erravalli, Siddipet on Wednesday.

The high-stakes discussion reportedly centred around the recent notices issued by the Justice PC Ghosh-led Kaleswaram Lift Irrigation Project Inquiry Commission, which has been probing alleged irregularities and construction flaws in the state’s flagship irrigation scheme.

According to sources, KCR delved deep into the findings of the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) and vigilance reports, which highlighted structural defects including sagging piers and leakages across the Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla barrages.

The former CM is believed to have reached out to retired engineers who previously testified before the commission, gathering insights about the line of questioning and the responses submitted. Some engineers reportedly told the panel that decisions on site selection, design alterations, and execution were taken directly on KCR’s instructions.

The meeting also touched upon the recent controversy involving BRS MLC K. Kavitha, though details remain under wraps.

As per the commission’s summons, KCR is expected to appear on June 5, Harish Rao on June 6, and former minister Eatala Rajender on June 9. Since its formation in March 2024, the inquiry commission has examined over 100 officials. The state government has extended its tenure until July 31, 2025.