Advocate Mohsin Dar Files RTI Seeking Detailed Information on CSR Spending by NHPC and CVPP in Kishtwar District
Kishtwar, May 5: In a significant move aimed at promoting transparency and accountability in public spending, J&K High Court lawyer Advocate Mohsin Dar has filed a comprehensive application under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 seeking crucial details regarding Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities carried out by NHPC Limited and Chenab Valley Power Projects Pvt. Ltd. (CVPP) in Kishtwar district, Jammu & Kashmir.
The RTI application, submitted to the Public Information Officers of both companies, specifically requests year-wise data from 2017 to 2024 on funds allocated and spent under CSR by NHPC and CVPP for the welfare and development of the local communities in Kishtwar.
Speaking to reporters, Advocate Mohsin Dar said, “Kishtwar has witnessed massive hydropower development in the last decade, with national-level companies operating major projects here. The people of the district have a right to know how much CSR support has actually reached them. This RTI is a step toward ensuring that public interest is served and that corporations fulfill their social obligations honestly and transparently.”
NHPC currently operates the 390 MW Dulhasti Hydroelectric Project in the district, while CVPP is executing three major hydroelectric projects—Pakal Dul (1,000 MW), Kiru (624 MW), and Kwar (540 MW)—which are expected to be commissioned in the coming years. These projects are estimated to bring in thousands of crores in investment and power revenue, raising expectations for meaningful community development under CSR obligations.
Advocate Dar added that the information received through the RTI will be made public and used to initiate informed dialogue with government officials, local representatives, and civil society groups. He urged citizens to remain vigilant about how public and corporate resources are being utilized in their name.
The RTI Act provides for a response within 30 days from the date of receipt by the Public Information Officer. Advocate Dar has stated that he will escalate the matter to the Central Information Commission in case of delay or denial of information.
