Chennithala alleges irregularities of 100 crores in solar-powered pumps for farmers 

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala has said that the P M Kusum scheme, a central scheme to provide solar pumps to farmers in the state, is one of the biggest scams in Kerala in recent times. He also alleged that irregularities worth over Rs 100 crore have taken place in the Rs 240 crore project.

Chennithala alleged that the tender in Kerala was awarded at a rate more than double the bench mark rate set by the central government for the installation of pumps. The rate increase ranged from 60 percent to 147 percent. He said that this has made a difference of about Rs 100 crore in the total transaction.

‘The irregularities started when the CEO of ANERT, who is allowed to call tenders up to Rs 5 crore, called a tender of Rs 240 crore. It should be clarified how it was possible to call a tender for such a high amount without the written permission of the government. Where did the CEO of ANERT get the courage to do things beyond his jurisdiction? How does an official have the courage to do such a thing without the secret instructions of the minister.

It is clear that this is an irregularity that happened with the tacit consent of the Minister of Electricity. There is massive embezzlement by awarding contracts at high prices, including to companies without grading. The Left government in Kerala has descended to the level of corruption wherever it touches, said Chennithala said.