Archive · 20 Jan 2026
Telangana HC Extends Protection to KCR, Harish Rao in Kaleshwaram Probe
The Telangana High Court has extended the protection for four people, including a former chief minister and a former minister, from any bad actions based on a report about a big water project called Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project.
The court said they can't be punished until the next hearing in February 2026.
The report says there were big problems in how the project was planned and built.
The people involved say they weren't given a fair chance to explain themselves.
The court also refused to stop the creation of a new city council in Kothagudem, saying there's no reason to do so right now.
Telangana High Court extended interim protection to KCR, Harish Rao, Joshi, and Sabharwal until February 25, 2026.
Protection granted from adverse action based on the PC Ghose Commission report on KLIP irregularities.
Petitioners allege the commission did not issue notices or provide an opportunity to respond to allegations.
The court refused to stay the formation of Kothagudem Municipal Corporation, finding no reason for interim orders.
Petitioners claim the government merged municipalities and gram panchayats in Scheduled Areas without legal authority.
- Who
- Former CM K Chandrasekhar Rao, former irrigation minister T Harish Rao, former chief secretary Shailendra Kumar Joshi, former CMO secretary Smita Sabharwal
- What
- Telangana High Court extended interim protection from adverse action based on PC Ghose Commission report
- When
- Next hearing scheduled for February 25, 2026
- Where
- Telangana High Court
- Why
- Petitioners seek to quash the PC Ghose Commission report on alleged irregularities in KLIP
- Petitioners
- K Chandrasekhar Rao, T Harish Rao, Shailendra Kumar Joshi, Smita Sabharwal
- Commission
- PC Ghose Commission of Inquiry
- Project
- Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP)
- Next Hearing
- February 25, 2026
- Allegations
- Grave irregularities in KLIP construction and financial mismanagement
- Legal Issue
- Petitioners claim lack of notice and opportunity to respond
- Court's Decision
- Extended interim protection until next hearing
