New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a chargesheet against former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik in a corruption case linked to alleged irregularities in the tendering process for the Kiru Hydroelectric Power Project in Kishtwar. The project, valued at approximately Rs 2,200 crore, was executed by Chenab Valley Power Projects Pvt Ltd (CVPPPL). Malik, who served as governor from August 23, 2018, to October 30, 2019, had previously claimed he was offered a Rs 300 crore bribe to clear two files, one of which was related to this project.
Allegations of Bribery and Initial Investigation
In October 2021, Satya Pal Malik publicly alleged that he was offered Rs 300 crore to approve two files, including one tied to the Kiru Hydroelectric Project and another linked to a leader from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Following his statement, the Jammu and Kashmir government requested a CBI probe, leading to the registration of two FIRs in April 2022. One FIR focused on alleged corruption in the Kiru Project’s civil works contract, while the other concerned the J&K Employee Healthcare Scheme contract and a payment of around Rs 60 crore in 2017-18. The CBI found that the tendering process for the Kiru Project violated e-tendering guidelines. Despite a decision at CVPPPL’s 47th board meeting to cancel the existing tender and reissue it through e-tendering with reverse auction, the contract was awarded to Patel Engineering Ltd without following this protocol.
CBI Raids and Malik’s Response
In February 2024, the CBI intensified its investigation, conducting raids at over 30 locations, including Malik’s residences in Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir. The raids also targeted CVPPPL officials and Malik’s associates, such as former chairman Navin Kumar Chaudhary, former officials MS Babu, MK Mittal, and Arun Kumar Mishra, along with Patel Engineering Ltd. Malik condemned the raids, calling them an attempt to intimidate him. In a post on X, he wrote, “I have been ill for the last three to four days and am admitted to the hospital. Despite this, my house is being raided by the dictator through government agencies. My driver and my assistant are also being raided and harassed unnecessarily. I am a farmer’s son, I will not be afraid of these raids. I am with the farmers.”
Chargesheet Filed and Key Accusations
On May 22, 2025, the CBI filed a chargesheet against Satya Pal Malik and six others, including Navin Kumar Chaudhary, MS Babu, MK Mittal, Arun Kumar Mishra, and Patel Engineering Ltd. The investigation revealed significant irregularities in the awarding of the Kiru Project contract. Malik has denied the allegations, claiming the action is part of a conspiracy against him.
What Lies Ahead: Court Proceedings and Potential Outcomes
With the chargesheet filed, the case will now proceed to court for trial. If the court accepts the chargesheet, a formal trial against Malik and the other accused will begin, where the CBI will present evidence, including documents seized during the raids. Malik and the others are likely to challenge the action, possibly labeling it as politically motivated. Malik, a vocal critic of the central government and its policies in recent years, has previously raised concerns over issues like the Pulwama attack and government accountability. If convicted, Malik could face imprisonment and fines, but an acquittal could raise questions about the CBI’s investigation. This case may also spark calls for greater transparency in government project tendering processes to prevent future corruption.