Hyderabad — September 6, 2025
In a significant twist in the long-running Kaleshwaram corruption investigation, CBI Director Praveen Sood has landed in Hyderabad. He visited the branch office in Koti for a focused meeting with senior officials. His arrival marks the first tangible action following the Telangana government’s request for a central probe.
What Prompted This Move?
The Telangana government recently wrote to the Union Home Ministry and CBI, pointing to Justice PC Ghose Commission and National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) reports. These documents cite engineering flaws, design lapses, financial mismanagement, and possible corruption in the Kaleshwaram project.
Legal Roadblocks to Beginning the Investigation
Despite the government’s initiative, procedural hurdles persist. A central Section 5 notification is required, in addition to the State’s Section 6 notification under the DSPE Act. Clearance from the Governor is also mandatory since the probe involves sitting MLAs like K. Chandrasekhar Rao and Harish Rao.
Who Is Praveen Sood?
- *Academic credentials: B.Tech from Ith IIT Delhi; postgraduate degrees from *IIM Bangalore and Maxwell School, Syracuse University in Public Policy and Management.
- *Career journey: A 1986-batch Karnataka cadre IPS officer, he joined as ASP in Mysore in 1989 and rose to become DGP Karnataka before being appointed CBI Director on *25 May 2023. His tenure has since been extended by one year.
- *Honors and experience: Recipient of the **President’s Police Medal, **Chief Minister’s Gold Medal, and **Prince Michael International Road Safety Award. He previously served as Policef Advisor in Mauritius, and Commissioner in Mysuru and Bengaluru. Known for launching Bengaluru’s *“Namma-100” emergency response system.
What Lies Ahead?
CBI Director Sood is expected to form dedicated teams during a session at the Sardar Patel National Police Academy to chart the investigation’s next phase. The legal team will also address the High Court’s stay on using the Ghose report in case filings.
Why This Matters
This move sends a strong signal that Telangana’s leadership is pursuing accountability for alleged massive wrongdoing in one of India’s most ambitious irrigation projects. The CBI probe could finally unveil why the Kaleshwaram scheme, aimed at transforming lives, has become mired in controversy.
Summary in a Nutshell
CBI Director Praveen Sood has reached Hyderabad to initiate the probe into Kaleshwaram corruption. His arrival signals the beginning of an investigative phase shaped by legal procedures, political currents, and thorough preparation.