BRS leader and former minister T. Harish Rao has called for a CBI investigation into the Naini coal block tenders following corruption allegations. This demand comes after Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka instructed the cancellation of the tenders by Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) and proposed the auction of Naini coal blocks in Odisha. The BRS leader has urged Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy to initiate the CBI probe.
The Deputy Chief Minister denied claims that a ‘site visit’ condition in the tender was designed to benefit specific companies. Harish Rao, addressing a press conference, emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in the tender process. He alleged that the introduction of the ‘site visit’ certificate policy favored certain entities, including Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy’s brother-in-law, Sujan Reddy.
Harish Rao highlighted discrepancies in the tendering process, stating that tenders were previously awarded at lower rates compared to the recent plus percentages. He challenged Revanth Reddy to allow a CBI investigation if there are no hidden agendas. The BRS leader criticized the alleged misuse of the ‘site visit’ rule to manipulate the tender outcomes and benefit specific parties.
Alleging a scam in Singareni tenders, Harish Rao claimed disputes over the distribution of benefits among top officials. He condemned the Chief Minister’s recent remarks targeting BRS platforms and flagpoles, warning of consequences if such actions continue. The BRS leader emphasized the party’s significance and support among the people of Telangana, asserting its deep-rooted connection with the community.
