Future Steps Uncertain as KCR Faces Deadline in Power Purchase Investigation

The issue of power purchases in Telangana is sparking significant controversy. Upon taking office, the Congress government ordered an investigation into these transactions, establishing the Justice Narasimha Reddy Commission for this purpose. The Law Commission, led by Justice L. Narasimha Reddy, previously issued notices to then-Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR), seeking explanations regarding the purchase of power plants in Chhattisgarh, as well as the Yadadri and Bhadradri thermal plants. The court set a deadline of June 15 for a written response. However, KCR requested an extension until July 30, which the Commission denied.

Justice L. Narasimha Reddy informed the media about the expiry of the deadline, raising questions about the Commission’s next steps if KCR fails to respond by June 15. Discussions revolve around whether the Commission will issue another letter with a new deadline, summon KCR for failing to respond on time, or take action according to the rules. There is speculation that, based on KCR’s response, a direct hearing may be conducted. If his explanation is unsatisfactory, the Electricity Commission may initiate a direct inquiry. The Telangana government had appointed the Justice Narasimha Reddy Commission to investigate alleged irregularities in power purchases during the previous BRS government.