State Bureau, Lucknow. An investigation has been started into allegations of irregularities in the tender process of oil and spices in the jail. On the instructions of Prison Minister Dara Singh Chauhan, investigation into allegations of irregularities in the tender process to benefit a company has been handed over to DIG Pradeep Gupta. It is alleged that despite there being two companies in the technical and financial tender, the work of supplying all the spices and oil has been given to only one company.
Last year, tenders for edible oil, spices and electrical mechanics were invited in the Prison Department. The last date of application was 23 October last year. Three companies, Shiv Shakti Enterprises, Rajmata Infracon and MG Organization, were found eligible in the technical bid. After this, all 10 tenders in the financial bid were given to Shiv Shakti Enterprises. Since then, allegations of irregularities in the tender are being made.
According to sources, there was very little difference in the rates of Shivshakti Enterprises, which stood first in the tender, and MG Organization, which stood second. Mustard oil, black pepper, cardamom, red chilli, cinnamon and turmeric were to be supplied in this tender. Jamuna Contractor and Supplier, the company participating in the tender process, had demanded from the government to investigate the allegations of irregularities in the tender process. After this, the Prison Minister has started an inquiry into the tender process. He said that if any irregularities are found in the tender process, strict action will be taken against the culprits.