Telangana Commission Initiates Probe into Power Purchase Agreements and Contracts
Hyderabad April 07
The Telangana Commission convened its inaugural meeting at the BRKR Bhavan, 7th Floor, where key officials from the Energy Department, TSTRANSCO, and TSGENCO were present. Chaired by S.A.M Rizvi, Principal Secretary to Government, Energy Department, the meeting delved into crucial matters outlined in GoMs.No.9, Energy (Power.II) Dept, dated 14.03.2024.
Of particular focus were the salient aspects of the Power Purchase Agreement between Telangana and Chhattisgarh, aiming to purchase 1000MW power in 2015, following the MoU dated 03.11.2014. Additionally, details regarding contracts awarded for Bhadradri Thermal Power Station and Yadadri Thermal Power Station underwent scrutiny, with pertinent records reviewed.
The Commission unveiled its plan to reach out to current and former officials involved in decision-making processes on the aforementioned matters. Letters or notices will be dispatched, inviting their perspectives.
Furthermore, the Commission announced its intention to engage the public by issuing a Public Notice, soliciting suggestions and information related to the subjects under investigation. The notice will include contact details for submission, and based on the received information, the Commission will determine whether physical hearings are necessary.
Emphasizing a fair and impartial approach, the Commission clarified its mandate, focusing solely on examining the legality and propriety of decisions, while disallowing any acrimony or attribution of motives during hearings or presentations.
“Justice Reddy Leads Probe into Power Station Decisions, Plans Referendum”
Justice L. Narasimha Reddy, recently appointed to lead a Commission of Inquiry, has announced plans to thoroughly investigate the decisions surrounding the construction of Yadadri and Bhadradri Thermal Power Stations, as well as the Chhattisgarh Power Purchase Agreement. Emphasizing an impartial approach devoid of political influence, Justice Reddy affirmed that the inquiry will focus solely on the legality and rationale behind these decisions.
In a briefing with the media, Justice Reddy stated that notices would soon be issued to all parties involved, including former Chief Minister KCR and ministers, if deemed necessary. He asserted that every individual implicated will have the opportunity to present their perspectives before the commission. Furthermore, Justice Reddy clarified that the investigation would be conducted with transparency and adherence to legal principles.
Regarding the timeframe, Justice Reddy outlined that the inquiry’s findings are expected to be submitted within 100 days. He also addressed concerns about the cooperation of current officials who may have been involved in the decisions under review, affirming that all relevant files have been received and examined.
Additionally, Justice Reddy disclosed plans for a forthcoming referendum to gauge public sentiment on the aforementioned projects. The public will have the opportunity to contribute information through various channels, including email and written submissions. Furthermore, a limited public inquiry will be conducted to gather insights from individuals with technical expertise, including electricity employees.
Responding to queries about the protection of employees testifying before the commission, Justice Reddy deferred to the internal policies of power companies, urging cooperation and discouraging any form of slander or political criticism during the investigation process.
