The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a chargesheet against former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik in connection with an alleged corruption case involving civil works contracts for the Kiru Hydroelectric Power Project in Kishtwar.
Malik, who held the governorship from August 2018 to October 2019, had earlier claimed that he was offered a ₹300 crore bribe to approve two project-related files. The CBI initiated investigations, eventually uncovering suspected irregularities in the tendering process of the ₹2,200 crore hydroelectric project.
In February 2024, the CBI conducted raids at over 30 locations, including Malik’s residences in Delhi and Jammu & Kashmir, along with associates linked to the Chenab Valley Power Projects (CVPPPL), the executing agency. The agency found evidence implicating several officials, including Patel Engineering Ltd, the company that won the contract despite an earlier board decision to opt for an e-tendering process.
While Malik has denied wrongdoing, calling the raids an intimidation tactic, the chargesheet signals deepening scrutiny over potential malpractices in awarding contracts. The case, first registered in April 2022 following Malik’s public allegations, is expected to bring further developments as legal proceedings unfold.
