CBI Raid at Ex-Governor Satya Pal Malik’s J&K Residence: Kiru Hydro Electric Project Scandal – Malik Unfazed

Today, on February 22nd, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted raids at the residence of former Governor Satya Pal Malik. Additionally, raids were also conducted at 29 other locations in Delhi. These actions are part of the investigation into alleged corruption in the Kiru Hydroelectric Project. 

During his tenure as governor, Satya Pal Malik had claimed that he was offered a launch of 300 crores to pass two files related to the hydroelectric project. Following the raid, Malik posted on X, stating, “I am a farmer’s son, not afraid of raids.” The developments highlight the ongoing efforts to address concerns of corruption and irregularities in significant infrastructure projects.

Allegations of Corruption Against Satya Pal Malik

On October 17, 2021, Satya Pal Malik, during an event in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, revealed that when he was the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, he was offered crores. During his tenure, he was approached with an offer of crores to pass two files related to the hydroelectric project. Among them, one file involved a major industrialist, while the other implicated Mehbooba Mufti, a former Chief Minister, and a minister in the BJP-led coalition government. Malik stated that his secretaries informed him about the bribery attempt, following which he rejected both offers.

Furthermore, Malik disclosed that he was offered 150 crores each for the files. He emphasized, “I arrived here wearing a simple kurta-pajama, and I will leave in the same attire. When the CBI investigates, I will reveal the names of those offering bribes.”

CBI Registers Two FIRs in Separate Cases

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed two separate FIRs in distinct cases. The first FIR is related to an alleged corruption scandal amounting to approximately Rs. 60 crore. This sum is linked to contracts issued in 2017-18 by government officials in Jammu and Kashmir for the state’s health insurance scheme, procured from an insurance company.

The second FIR pertains to corruption allegations concerning civil works for the Kiru Hydro Electric Power (HEP) project. A contract worth Rs. 2,200 crore was allegedly awarded to a private consortium in 2019 under dubious circumstances. The CBI is actively investigating both cases to uncover any instances of corruption and ensure accountability.