MLA Demands SIT Probe Into ₹4,000 Crore Tender Row

Nandgaon MLA Suhas Kande staged a protest at the Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan on Thursday, alleging large-scale irregularities in the Food and Civil Supplies Department's tender process worth nearly ₹4,000 crore.

The tender process in question is for the transportation of subsidised food grains and essential commodities. Kande accused Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal and his nephew, former MP Sameer Bhujbal, of involvement in the alleged irregularities.

Kande claimed that the tender process was riddled with irregularities and should be cancelled immediately. He alleged that Sameer Bhujbal played a significant role in the process and accused Minister Chhagan Bhujbal of shielding him.

The MLA also questioned the government's decision to extend transport contracts from the earlier three-year period to five years, alleging that the move reduced transparency. He further claimed that the powers of officials to inspect vehicles transporting food grains had been curtailed, weakening monitoring mechanisms and creating scope for malpractice.

Kande alleged that the same group of contractors has been awarded these contracts for the past 12 years, claiming the process was carried out in collusion. He also stated that the Bombay High Court has stayed the tender process after petitions challenging it were filed.

In response to the allegations, former MP Sameer Bhujbal issued a statement categorically denying any involvement in the tender process. He described the accusations as 'completely false and baseless' and said he had no connection whatsoever with the matter.

Bhujbal pointed out that the issue is currently sub judice before the Bombay High Court. He said the tender process was carried out only after receiving approval from the State Cabinet and that multiple petitions challenging it are pending before the court.

The Food and Civil Supplies Department is a crucial part of the Maharashtra government, responsible for ensuring the smooth distribution of essential commodities to the state's citizens. The department's tender process has been marred by controversy in the past, with allegations of corruption and favouritism.

The Maharashtra government has been facing criticism over its handling of the tender process, with opposition parties alleging that the ruling party is involved in corrupt practices. The Bombay High Court's decision to stay the tender process has added to the controversy, with many calling for a thorough investigation into the matter.

Kande has demanded a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the matter and has vowed to continue his protest until the government takes action. The MLA's protest has brought attention to the alleged irregularities in the tender process and has raised questions about the government's handling of the matter.

The controversy surrounding the Food and Civil Supplies Department's tender process is a significant issue in Maharashtra, with many citizens relying on the department for essential commodities. The government's response to the allegations and the outcome of the SIT probe will be closely watched by the public and the opposition parties.

In conclusion, the allegations of irregularities in the Food and Civil Supplies Department's tender process have sparked a major controversy in Maharashtra. The government's handling of the matter will have significant implications for the state's citizens and the opposition parties. The SIT probe and the Bombay High Court's decision will be crucial in determining the outcome of the controversy and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.