Satya Pal Malik Says 'Condition Very Serious' After CBI Chargesheet in ₹2,200 Crore Kiru Project Corruption Case

Former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik has been hospitalised at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in Delhi and says his health is in a “very serious” condition. His statement came just hours after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) filed a chargesheet naming him and five others in a multi-crore corruption case linked to the Kiru Hydropower Project in Jammu and Kashmir.

Malik, who has remained in the spotlight for his outspoken remarks on various political matters, made a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday afternoon stating that he was unable to take calls due to his deteriorating health.

“I’m receiving calls from many well-wishers, but I’m unable to answer them. My condition is very serious at the moment. I’m currently admitted to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in Delhi and am not in a state to talk to anyone,” he wrote.

CBI Files Chargesheet in ₹2,200 Crore Scam

The CBI, after nearly three years of investigation, has formally filed a chargesheet in a Delhi court against Malik and five others for alleged corruption in the awarding of civil works related to the Kiru Hydropower Project, a ₹2,200 crore project. The case centers around alleged irregularities and undue favours granted in awarding the contract to a private construction firm in 2019, during Malik’s tenure as Governor.

This chargesheet comes after a series of raids conducted by the CBI last year at Malik’s residence and the premises of others involved. The FIR in the case was registered in April 2022 based on allegations of bribery, procedural violations, and conflict of interest.

Malik's Earlier Explosive Allegation: ₹300 Crore Bribe Offer

Interestingly, Satya Pal Malik had himself alleged in 2021 that he was offered a ₹300 crore bribe to clear two files, one of which pertained to the same Kiru project. While he claimed to have refused the offer and raised red flags about the deal, he later accused the CBI of targeting him instead of investigating the “real culprits” he had named.

“I exposed corruption, yet the agency raided my home instead of those who tried to bribe me,” Malik had said after the searches conducted last year.

Political Reactions Expected

Malik’s hospitalisation and the CBI's chargesheet have once again pushed the former Governor into the center of a political and legal storm. Known for his controversial statements against top leaders and his public dissent, Malik’s claims have often found space in opposition narratives targeting the ruling establishment.

Although political parties have not officially responded yet, observers expect heated debate in the coming days—especially as the case involves a sitting former Governor, a rare instance in recent Indian legal history.

What Is the Kiru Hydropower Project?

The Kiru Hydroelectric Project, being developed in Jammu and Kashmir, is a 624 MW run-of-the-river scheme on the Chenab river. It is a key part of India’s efforts to harness clean energy in the region. The project came under the scanner in 2020 after questions were raised about the bidding process and contract awarding.

The CBI alleges that certain tenders were awarded without proper transparency and in violation of Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) guidelines.

What Lies Ahead

The court will now examine the chargesheet and determine the next steps, including whether to take cognisance and summon the accused. If convicted, Malik and others could face serious penalties under corruption and criminal conspiracy laws.

Meanwhile, Malik’s health concerns have added a new twist to the unfolding case, with questions being raised about timing, motive, and the possible political implications.