CBI Files Chargesheet Against Former J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik in Kiru Hydropower Corruption Case

New Delhi/Srinagar, May 23, 2025 – In a significant development in the ongoing crackdown on corruption in high-level public projects, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a comprehensive chargesheet against former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik, along with five others, in connection with alleged irregularities in the awarding of contracts for the Kiru Hydropower Project.

The charges stem from the tendering process related to the 624-megawatt Kiru project, a key component of the Jammu and Kashmir state’s energy infrastructure plan. The CBI alleges that substantial procedural violations and manipulations were carried out under Malik's tenure, leading to undue favouritism and potential financial losses to the public exchequer.

According to sources familiar with the investigation, the chargesheet includes evidence of misuse of official position, manipulation of bidding procedures, and decisions made in contradiction to the recommendations of the tender evaluation committee. The irregularities reportedly occurred during 2018–2019, a period when Satya Pal Malik served as the constitutional head of the erstwhile state under President's Rule.

The CBI’s probe, initiated after Malik himself publicly claimed that he was offered a bribe to clear certain files related to the project, took a sharp turn when several administrative documents and testimonies pointed to lapses in governance. The other individuals named in the chargesheet include senior officials associated with the Chenab Valley Power Projects Private Limited (CVPPPL), the executing agency of the project, and representatives of companies that allegedly benefited from the irregular contracts.

This is the first time a former Governor has been named in such a high-profile corruption case under the current government, adding to the larger narrative of accountability and transparency in public administration. While Malik has previously claimed innocence and framed his remarks as part of an anti-corruption crusade, the CBI has cited multiple contradictions in his statements during the investigation.

Political observers and legal experts say the case could set a precedent for how statutory authorities deal with allegations against former high-ranking officials. Meanwhile, opposition parties have demanded a speedy and impartial trial, calling the matter a test of institutional integrity.

The case will now proceed to the special CBI court, where formal hearings are expected to begin shortly.