‘Truth will come out’ – KTR after former chief minister KCR appears before Kaleshwaram commission

By | June 11, 2025
KTR addressing media on KCR Kaleshwaram commission probe

The political atmosphere in Telangana has heated up again. Former Chief Minister and Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) supremo K. Chandrashekhar Rao (KCR) appeared before the Justice P.C. Ghose Commission. The commission is probing the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIS). KCR’s appearance on June 11, 2025, reignited debates around this ambitious irrigation project. It also sparked controversy over its execution and the recent allegations. Afterward, KCR’s son and BRS Working President, KT Rama Rao (KTR), strongly defended both his father and the project. He called the investigation politically motivated and confidently stated that the “truth will come out.”

Background of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project

Kaleshwaram is one of the world’s largest multi-stage lift irrigation projects. It aims to transform Telangana’s water landscape. The project harnesses water from the Godavari River to irrigate over 45 lakh acres of drought-prone land. Launched in 2016, the project was completed within four years. This was an extraordinary feat considering its scale and complexity.

The project involves barrages, pumping stations, reservoirs, and an extensive canal network. These components lift water from low river points to higher ground. This benefits agriculture and provides drinking water. The project holds immense strategic importance for Telangana’s agrarian economy. It promises improved irrigation, increased crop yields, and better livelihoods for rural communities.

Emergence of Controversies

Despite its grand vision and timely completion, controversies have recently surfaced. The Indian National Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) raised concerns about cost overruns, structural faults, and alleged irregularities. One major issue was the damage to the Medigadda barrage, a key part of the project. The damage occurred soon after the inauguration.

Due to these allegations, the Justice P.C. Ghose Commission was set up. Its role is to investigate the planning, execution, and any possible irregularities. The commission will examine if corruption or mismanagement took place. It will also assign accountability if any lapses are found.

KCR’s Appearance Before the Commission

K. Chandrashekhar Rao’s testimony was highly anticipated. As the project’s chief architect and former chief minister, his insights were crucial. KCR stressed that the project was a collective decision of the Telangana Cabinet. He highlighted the transparent and rigorous process involved.

During his testimony, KCR denied any wrongdoing or negligence. He acknowledged that large infrastructure projects face challenges. However, he said the damage to Medigadda was an isolated case. He suggested it might have resulted from sabotage or natural wear and tear. KCR expressed confidence that the commission would clear misunderstandings and uphold the project’s integrity.

KTR’s Strong Defense

After KCR’s appearance, KTR spoke out loudly in defense of both his father and the project. He accused the opposition parties of a political conspiracy. According to him, their goal is to discredit the government’s flagship irrigation project.

KTR emphasized the monumental achievements of Kaleshwaram. He reminded the public that the project irrigates over 45 lakh acres. Additionally, it was completed in a record four years. He stressed that this was a joint government effort. Hence, blaming or crediting KCR alone was unfair.

Regarding the Medigadda barrage damage, KTR downplayed its significance. He called it a minor glitch among over a hundred project components working smoothly. He argued that the opposition was exaggerating the issue to malign the government. Furthermore, he compared the situation to infrastructure problems in other states. He suggested a double standard in the political narrative.

Political Undertones and the Larger Battle

This investigation occurs against the backdrop of rising political tensions in Telangana. Elections are approaching, and the Congress and BJP seek to gain ground in the state. Both parties have seized on the Kaleshwaram controversy to challenge BRS’s governance.

KTR accused these parties of distorting facts and spreading misinformation. He claimed that politicizing technical matters insults Telangana’s farmers and citizens. Meanwhile, the BRS portrays KCR and the project as symbols of Telangana’s self-reliance and visionary governance. They argue that Kaleshwaram lays the foundation for long-term prosperity.

Technical Challenges and Infrastructure Projects

Large irrigation projects like Kaleshwaram inevitably face technical hurdles. Building barrages and lift systems over difficult terrain exposes them to wear, damage, and repairs. Experts say periodic maintenance is normal for such infrastructure.

Officials admitted the damage to Medigadda but assured that repairs are underway. More importantly, the overall irrigation network functions effectively. It supports millions of farmers’ water needs.

Independent engineering assessments reportedly found no systemic faults or corruption. This strengthens the government’s position against political allegations.

The Road Ahead: Truth and Public Perception

KTR’s confident words that “truth will come out” show the party’s faith in the commission’s outcome. They hope the investigation will clarify facts and stop rumors. This will also refocus attention on the project’s benefits.

However, the probe’s political impact could be significant. Any findings of mismanagement may hurt BRS’s image and electoral chances. On the other hand, a clean report will boost public trust and the party’s standing.

For Telangana’s people, the priority remains water security and agricultural growth. The success or failure of Kaleshwaram will directly affect their livelihoods. Therefore, the commission’s investigation and government transparency are vital.

Conclusion

The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project is at the center of Telangana’s water and political discussions. KCR’s testimony before the commission was a key moment. KTR’s defense and call for truth highlight the government’s confidence. They also show their determination to fight political attacks.

Controversies and challenges are expected in large projects. Still, the focus must remain on long-term public benefits. As investigations proceed, it is hoped that fairness and facts will prevail. This will help Telangana progress with one of its most transformative infrastructure projects.