Central Technical Committee Launches Probe into Singareni's Naini Coal Block Tenders
A two-member technical committee appointed by the Union coal ministry has initiated a detailed investigation into the controversial Naini coal block tenders issued by Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL). The probe commenced on Saturday at Singareni Bhavan in Hyderabad, focusing on allegations of irregularities that have sparked political tensions between the BRS and Congress parties.
Committee Composition and Investigation Scope
The technical committee comprises coal ministry officials deputy director general Chetana Shukla and technical director Marapalli Venkateshwarlu. Their mandate includes examining multiple aspects of the tendering process, including:
- Tender regulations and compliance procedures
- Utilization of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds
- Other related operational aspects of the Naini coal mine project
Sources indicate the committee conducted extensive inquiries for nearly seven hours on Friday night, resuming their investigation on Saturday. During this period, they collected detailed information from SCCL chairman and managing director Krishna Bhaskar. The committee is expected to submit its comprehensive report to the central government by Monday.
Political Context and Allegations
The investigation unfolds against a backdrop of political accusations, with the BRS party alleging irregularities in Singareni's tendering process during the Congress government's tenure. These tenders, originally issued by SCCL, were subsequently cancelled by Telangana deputy chief minister Bhatti Vikramarka, who holds the energy portfolio.
In response to the allegations, Bhatti has rejected the charges and offered to order a comprehensive inquiry into all tenders and contracts awarded by Singareni since 2014, when the BRS came to power, until the present day. This political dimension adds complexity to the technical investigation currently underway.
Union Minister's Focus on Efficiency and Profitability
Even as the central technical committee continued its inquiry in Hyderabad, Union coal and mines minister G Kishan Reddy visited Kothagudem on Saturday as part of his two-day tour of coal mining areas. During his visit, Reddy conducted a high-level review meeting with SCCL's chairman and managing director, directors, and general managers.
The Union minister emphasized the importance of avoiding controversies and instead focusing on strengthening the public sector miner through efficient and profitable operations. He specifically advised Singareni officials to concentrate on core operational improvements rather than becoming entangled in political disputes.
Strategic Initiatives for SCCL's Future
During the review meeting, Kishan Reddy outlined several strategic initiatives for SCCL's development, including:
- Coal gasification projects for syngas production to diversify energy output
- Establishment of pumped water power plants for enhanced and diversified power generation capabilities
- Setting up coal washeries to significantly improve coal quality and market competitiveness
The minister also reviewed decisions taken by the company to enhance coal production, particularly in light of certain underground mines scheduled to be closed over the next five years. He sought detailed briefings on multiple operational aspects, including:
- Current coal production levels and future projections
- Coal quality metrics and improvement strategies
- Welfare measures for workers and employee satisfaction indicators
This dual approach—combining a technical investigation into past tendering processes with forward-looking strategic planning for operational efficiency—reflects the government's comprehensive approach to public sector mining operations. The outcome of the committee's investigation is anticipated to have significant implications for both SCCL's operational practices and the ongoing political discourse surrounding public sector enterprises in India's energy sector.
