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The political landscape of Telangana is currently embroiled in a controversy surrounding K.T. Rama Rao (KTR), a prominent leader of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) and former state minister. An investigation has been green-lit by the Telangana governor into alleged financial irregularities totaling Rs 55 crore linked to the organization of the Formula E race held in Hyderabad last year. The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), having received a complaint from the Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MAUD) department, initiated the process of seeking approval for the investigation. The ACB alleges that KTR, in his former capacity as the MAUD minister, issued verbal instructions for the transfer of this substantial sum to the race organizers, bypassing established financial procedures. This alleged bypassing of protocol is the crux of the investigation.
A key piece of evidence in the ACB's case comes from Arvind Kumar, a senior official within the MAUD department who served as principal secretary at the time. Kumar reportedly admitted to receiving verbal instructions from KTR regarding the funds transfer. This admission significantly strengthens the ACB's case, providing a direct link between KTR and the alleged irregularity. The investigation will delve into the details of these instructions, examining the context, the exact wording, and any supporting documentation. The absence of written documentation, if confirmed, underscores the seriousness of the alleged breach of protocol and raises questions about the transparency and accountability within the previous state government.
KTR, a prominent figure in Telangana politics and son of the BRS chief K. Chandrashekar Rao, has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. He claims that the accusations are politically motivated, alleging that the current Congress government, led by Revanth Reddy, and the BJP are targeting him. He has publicly stated his willingness to cooperate with the investigation, even expressing a readiness to face imprisonment, and plans to undertake a 'padyatra' (foot march) should he be incarcerated. This defiant stance underlines the high stakes involved in this case and the deep political divisions within Telangana. KTR's claim that cabinet approval wasn't necessary for the fund transfer will be a key point of contention during the investigation, as the ACB will scrutinize the relevant financial regulations and the processes normally followed for such large-scale transactions.
The Formula E race itself presents another layer of complexity to the investigation. The MAUD department signed a tripartite agreement with Formula E Organisers (FEO) and Ace Nxt Gen Pvt Ltd in 2022 to host seasons nine through twelve of the race. Ace Nxt Gen, the promoter, subsequently withdrew citing losses. The subsequent transfer of Rs 55 crore (including Rs 9 crore in taxes) to FEO, allegedly on KTR's advice, is a significant aspect of the allegations. The timing of this transfer, after the Telangana Assembly election schedule was announced and without Election Commission approval, raises further concerns about potential violations of electoral regulations. The ACB will also investigate the decision to make payments in pounds without obtaining necessary clearance from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), a potential breach of foreign exchange regulations.
This case has significant implications beyond the immediate players. It involves substantial sums of public money and questions of transparency, accountability, and adherence to established financial procedures within the state government. The outcome of the investigation will not only determine KTR's fate but could also have broader ramifications for the BRS and the political climate in Telangana. The investigation will meticulously examine every aspect of the transaction, from the initial instructions to the final transfer of funds, seeking to ascertain whether established procedures were followed and whether any criminal wrongdoing occurred. The scrutiny will also extend to the roles played by other officials within the MAUD department and the FEO, ensuring a thorough and comprehensive investigation. The public is keenly watching the unfolding events, awaiting a transparent and impartial resolution to this high-profile case.
Source: Probe Against KTR Over Alleged Irregularities In Formula E Race: Sources