Kiru Hydroelectric Project Scam Unravels: CBI Names Malik, Secretaries, and Four Others in Corruption Chargesheet
Rahies Ajmil
New Delhi/Srinagar, May 22:
In an unprecedented move, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a chargesheet against former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satyapal Malik, his two former private secretaries, and four other individuals in connection with alleged corruption in the Kiru Hydroelectric Power Project—a high-value infrastructure venture in the Chenab Valley region of Jammu and Kashmir.
The 624 MW Kiru Project, undertaken by Chenab Valley Power Projects Private Limited (CVPPPL), is a major hydropower development jointly owned by NHPC, JKSPDC, and PTC India. The project was intended to boost energy generation and economic growth in J&K. However, the contract awarding process for civil works came under scrutiny over alleged favoritism and financial irregularities.
The Charges
CBI sources confirmed that a chargesheet has been filed under various provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Indian Penal Code (now Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita equivalents). The agency alleges manipulation in tendering and influence over the contract process. The two private secretaries of Malik allegedly acted as intermediaries, demanding bribes in return for awarding the contract to a private company.
This case stems from Satyapal Malik’s own public statements made in 2022, in which he claimed that he was offered a Rs 300 crore bribe to clear files related to two deals during his tenure as J&K Governor—one involving an insurance contract, and the other involving the Kiru Hydro Project. Malik had at the time portrayed himself as having refused the bribe, triggering public demand for investigation.
However, with the CBI now formally naming him in the case, the tables appear to have turned dramatically.
Malik’s Hospitalization and Public Message
Shortly after the CBI action was made public, Satyapal Malik posted a message on X (formerly Twitter), indicating a serious health condition.
In Hindi, he wrote:
“नमस्कार साथियों। मेरे बहुत से शुभचिंतकों के फ़ोन आ रहे हैं जिन्हें उठाने में मैं असमर्थ हूं। अभी मेरी हालत बहुत खराब है, मैं फिलहाल राममनोहर लोहिया अस्पताल दिल्ली में भर्ती हूं और किसी से भी बात करने की हालत में नहीं हूं।”
(Translation: “Greetings, friends. Many well-wishers are calling, but I’m unable to answer. My health is very poor at the moment. I’m currently admitted at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in Delhi and not in a condition to speak to anyone.”)
His hospitalization has drawn sympathy from some political quarters, but critics have questioned the timing, given the legal developments.
The Rift and Political Fallout
Malik’s tenure as Governor (2018–2020) was one of the most politically volatile periods in Jammu and Kashmir. He presided over the revocation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of the state into Union Territories. While initially seen as loyal to the central leadership, Malik later distanced himself from the ruling party and began making outspoken remarks—on Kashmir, corruption, and even on the Pulwama attack, claiming security lapses had been ignored.
This growing rift between Malik and the central establishment has led many to perceive the CBI’s tightening probe as politically sensitive, although the agency maintains its investigation is purely evidence-driven.
What Next?
The court will now review the CBI’s chargesheet and decide whether to summon the accused. The case, involving a high-profile former constitutional office holder, is expected to attract sustained national attention.
This marks the first time a former Governor of Jammu and Kashmir has been chargesheeted in a corruption case, raising serious concerns over transparency and governance in past administrations.
JK Top News will continue to monitor this developing story and bring verified updates to its readers.
