Mon Dec 15 21:12:40 UTC 2025: Summary:

The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, is calling for investigations into BJP legislators allegedly interfering with the Ratle Hydroelectric Project, a nationally important power project in the Chenab Valley. He highlighted concerns raised by Megha Engineering and Infrastructures Ltd (MEIL), the project’s constructor, regarding undue political pressure. Abdullah also expressed frustration that power corporations haven’t been handed over to the elected government. Meanwhile, MEIL has requested police action against a social media influencer for allegedly spreading defamatory and threatening content related to the project and targeting their officer.

News Article:

J&K CM Demands Probe into Alleged Interference in Key Power Project

Srinagar, December 16, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is urging investigation agencies to take action against BJP legislators accused of interfering with the 850-Megawatt Ratle Hydroelectric Project in Kishtwar. The project, a run-of-river scheme on the Chenab River and of national importance, is facing allegations of political interference, according to construction firm Megha Engineering and Infrastructures Ltd (MEIL).

“These are institutions of national importance, and no interference should be allowed,” stated Mr. Abdullah. He lamented that power corporations have not been transferred to the elected government.

MEIL had previously threatened to withdraw from the project, citing pressure from local politicians to hire local workers even when no vacancies exist.

In a separate development, MEIL has requested the Kishtwar Deputy Commissioner to file a First Information Report (FIR) against social media influencer Asif Iqbal Naik for allegedly publishing defamatory and threatening content targeting a company officer.

“The video is being widely circulated, and inflammatory comments posted by viewers have further aggravated the situation, creating a clear and present threat to safety, public order, and workplace harmony,” said Harpal Singh, Joint Chief Operating Officer of MEIL. He requested an investigation, arrest, and prosecution of Naik.

The Ratle project, approved in 2021 at a cost of ₹5281.94 crores, is scheduled for commissioning in May 2026. The ongoing controversies are raising concerns about potential delays and disruptions to this critical infrastructure project.

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