Rapid Summary
- Congress Working Committee member Ramesh Chennithala has raised allegations of irregularities worth over ₹100 crore in the public sector undertaking Anert (Agency for New and Renewable Energy Research and Technology).
- The irregularities are tied to the installation of solar pumps under the PM Kusum scheme, a central initiative providing free solar pumps to farmers.
- Mr. Chennithala has called for Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s intervention, claiming that a Finance Department “flash investigation” was inadequate.
- He proposed a forensic audit of all Anert transactions from the past five years by an autonomous agency and further investigation by an Assembly committee.
- Mr. Chennithala claimed Electricity Minister K.Krishnankutty and senior officials were allegedly involved in irregularities related to a ₹240-crore tender within Anert.
- According to him, Anert’s CEO issued the large-scale tender despite being authorized only for projects up to ₹5 crore, raising questions about ministerial approval.
Indian Opinion Analysis
the allegations raised by Ramesh Chennithala highlight potential governance issues surrounding renewable energy implementation under central schemes like PM Kusum in Kerala. If substantiated, these claims may undermine openness in public sector undertakings like Anert responsible for overseeing critical green energy programs.
The demand for a detailed forensic audit reflects growing concerns over financial accountability and procedural alignment with prescribed limits-such as adherence to tendering permissions outlined in official roles. A structured inquiry involving both state-led oversight mechanisms and independent audits could help uncover facts while restoring public trust.
Though, it is indeed paramount that any investigation ensures impartiality across political sides while preserving india’s focus on renewable energy goals without delay or disruption due to administrative controversies.For more details: Read more