By In a significant political development in Telangana, state minister T. Harish Rao appeared before the Justice P.C. Ghose Commission on Monday. The commission, constituted to probe into specific administrative and financial decisions taken by the previous government, has summoned several key figures in recent weeks. Harish Rao’s appearance marked a crucial point in the ongoing investigation process.
Background of the PC Ghose Commission
The Justice P.C. Ghose Commission was appointed by the Government of Telangana to investigate allegations of mismanagement and irregularities in public fund utilization during the earlier regime. The commission, headed by former Supreme Court judge P.C. Ghose, was tasked with probing large-scale developmental projects, welfare schemes, and land allocations between 2014 and 2023.
The commission’s mandate includes examining:
- Allocation and spending of public funds
- Execution of welfare schemes
- Land and resource utilization policies
- Accountability of ministers and top bureaucrats
Harish Rao’s Role and Importance
Harish Rao, a senior leader from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) and nephew of former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao, has held key portfolios including Finance, Irrigation, and Health over the years. He is considered one of the most influential and experienced leaders in the BRS, known for his administrative skills and stronghold in the Siddipet region.
Given his close involvement in several large projects—especially the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Scheme (KLIS)—his testimony before the commission carried weight and drew considerable political attention.
Proceedings Before the Commission
According to sources, Harish Rao was questioned on multiple issues, including:
- Sanctioning of irrigation project tenders
- Budget allocations for flagship schemes
- Role in decision-making on financial grants to private institutions
- Expenditure reports under the Health and Family Welfare Department
Rao is said to have cooperated with the commission and submitted all required documents, including project files, fund allocation details, and minutes of departmental meetings.
In his response, Harish Rao clarified that all procedures were followed in accordance with the Finance Department’s norms and that no irregularities occurred under his supervision. He also defended the government’s ambitious irrigation projects, stating they were designed to address the long-standing drought issues in Telangana’s rural areas.
Political Reactions
Rao’s appearance before the commission sparked a political storm in Telangana. The Congress-led government, which came to power recently, has been pushing for accountability and transparency in public governance. Ministers from the Congress party lauded the commission’s work and reiterated their commitment to rooting out corruption.
Meanwhile, BRS leaders called the move politically motivated and accused the ruling party of using investigative bodies to malign its image. Party spokespersons stated that Harish Rao’s cooperation with the commission proves there is “nothing to hide” and emphasized the developmental impact of BRS policies.
Public and Media Attention
The media extensively covered the event, with news channels and digital platforms broadcasting live updates from the commission’s office. Civil society groups have welcomed the probe and demanded that all ministers—regardless of party affiliation—be held accountable for their decisions while in power.
Analysts believe that Harish Rao’s composed and professional appearance before the commission could help him retain his credibility among voters, even if the final report brings out minor discrepancies.
Commission’s Next Steps
The P.C. Ghose Commission is expected to continue its hearings through the next few weeks. Summons have reportedly been issued to several senior bureaucrats, engineers, and former cabinet ministers. The commission will also review files related to:
- Mission Bhagiratha and Mission Kakatiya
- Double-bedroom housing scheme
- Land regularization policies
- Education infrastructure funding
A preliminary report is expected to be submitted to the Chief Minister’s Office by July-end, with a detailed final report to follow by September.
Harish Rao’s Statement
Speaking briefly to the media after his deposition, Harish Rao said:
He refrained from making any political comments, signaling a focus on the legal aspects of the inquiry rather than engaging in party-based criticism.
Conclusion
Harish Rao’s appearance before the PC Ghose Commission is being viewed as a pivotal moment in Telangana’s current political and administrative landscape. While the commission’s findings are still awaited, this development underscores a broader shift towards accountability in governance. As more political leaders are called for questioning, the state awaits a clearer picture of past decisions and future responsibilities.
