Telangana Deputy CM Reveals Sharp Rise in Medical Invalidation Cases at Singareni Collieries
In a significant disclosure in the legislative council, Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka stated that a staggering 13,119 cases of medical invalidation were recorded at the Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) between the years 2014 and 2023. This revelation highlights a critical issue affecting the state's largest public sector enterprise.
Investigations and Comparative Analysis
Bhatti Vikramarka confirmed that Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and vigilance probes are currently underway in a substantial number of these cases, indicating concerns over potential misuse of provisions. The deputy chief minister expressed alarm at the dramatic increase, noting that this figure is markedly higher than the 3,859 cases reported over the 14-year period from 2000 to 2014.
Replying to a question raised by BRS member S Madhusudhana Chary, Bhatti elaborated on the financial implications, stating that the sudden surge has placed a considerable burden on Singareni's resources. "Considering the possibility of misuse, and after examining the norms followed by Coal India and Western Coalfields, a committee has been constituted," he explained.
Humanitarian Approach and Employment Initiatives
The government has adopted a compassionate strategy to address the situation. Rather than abandoning those declared medically invalid, the committee will ensure a humanitarian approach by providing employment opportunities to dependents. This initiative aims to support affected families while scrutinizing the process to prevent future irregularities.
Over the past two years, Singareni has conducted 14 medical board meetings, resulting in employment for 1,041 dependents in 2024 and 949 in 2025. These efforts demonstrate a commitment to balancing accountability with social welfare.
High Production Costs and Market Challenges
Bhatti also highlighted the exorbitant cost of coal production at Singareni, which stands at Rs 4,088 per tonne. This is substantially higher compared to Rs 1,065 in Coal India and Rs 2,169 in Western Coalfields. The deputy chief minister emphasized the need to rationalize operations in the context of globalization and evolving market dynamics to preserve the enterprise for future generations.
"About 30% of Singareni's coal production goes to Genco. Since Genco is purchasing coal from Singareni at higher prices compared to the open market, it is facing a production cost burden, which ultimately impacts the state's population of 3.55 crore," Bhatti stated.
Financial Burden and Strategic Decisions
Procuring higher-priced coal from Singareni imposes an additional financial strain on Genco. Bhatti noted that if Genco sources coal from Coal India, the cost per unit reduces by Rs 2, and from Western Coalfields, the burden decreases by Rs 1.25 per unit. He stressed the urgency of making concrete decisions to safeguard both Singareni and Genco, as both are government entities.
"Singareni must align its production costs with those of other coal companies. Only then can the organisation be preserved for future generations," Bhatti added, underscoring the necessity for operational efficiency and cost management.
The deputy chief minister's statements underscore a multifaceted challenge involving governance, economic sustainability, and employee welfare, with ongoing investigations and committee reviews poised to shape future policies at Singareni Collieries.
