Telangana High Court continues interim protection to KCR and others in the PC Ghose Commission report on Kaleshwaram, citing arguments over denial of fair hearing.

The Telangana High Court on Friday extended its interim protection to former chief minister K. Chandrashekar Rao and three others until March 2 in connection with the PC Ghose Commission report on the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Scheme.

A Division Bench led by Chief Justice Aparesh Kumar Singh, along with Justice G.M. Mohiuddin, heard separate petitions filed by KCR, former minister T. Harish Rao, former chief secretary S.K. Joshi and IAS officer Smitha Sabharwal. The petitioners have sought suspension of the Commission’s report, which reportedly held them accountable over aspects of the project’s execution.

The court had earlier restrained the state government from initiating adverse action against the leaders based on the Commission’s findings. That protection has now been continued after the petitioners’ counsel concluded arguments.

Senior advocate Dama Sheshadri Naidu, appearing for KCR, argued that the Commission, vested with civil court powers, was obligated to adhere to principles of natural justice. He submitted that the former chief minister was not granted a fair opportunity to defend himself before conclusions were drawn.

The counsel further contended that despite nearly 190 witnesses being examined during the inquiry, KCR was not allowed to cross-examine them. He also alleged that portions of the report were circulated publicly before being formally tabled in the Assembly.

The High Court is expected to resume hearing the matter after March 2, with the interim shield against adverse action remaining in force until then.