THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, May 7: Leader of the Opposition and BJP leader Babulal Marandi has written to Chief Minister Hemant Soren alleging large-scale irregularities and possible corruption in the tender process for the installation of CCTV cameras in police stations across Jharkhand.
In his letter, Marandi demanded immediate cancellation of the tender and strict punitive action against officials allegedly involved in the process. He also warned that if corrective steps are not taken, the controversy could escalate further and politically impact the government.
Allegations of ‘Rigged Tender’ and Favouritism
Marandi claimed that an earlier tender was cancelled and a fresh tender floated to favour a particular company. He alleged that the revised tender conditions were framed in a manner that could benefit a select bidder.
The BJP leader alleged that Tata Advanced Systems was likely to secure the contract and claimed that the tender process reflected similarities with the alleged liquor scam that had earlier rocked the state government.
Referring to a letter issued by the Department of Information Technology to JAPIT, Marandi said the allegations related to the original tender were “serious in nature” and raised suspicion over the entire process.
Questions Raised Over Technical Specifications
In his communication to the Chief Minister, Marandi highlighted several technical and procedural concerns related to the revised Request for Proposal (RFP).
He alleged that:
- The revised specifications diluted camera quality and recording standards, allegedly violating Supreme Court guidelines on CCTV installation in police stations.
- Eligibility criteria for bidders were designed to favour only a limited number of companies.
- Conditions related to CCTV camera OEMs and UPS manufacturers appeared restrictive and tailored for select entities.
- Certain technical specifications related to Network Video Recorders (NVRs) and PoE switches seemed to benefit a specific OEM.
- Mandatory certifications and compliance norms were allegedly applied selectively.
According to Marandi, the overall structure of the tender suggested an attempt to unduly benefit specific bidders and manufacturers.
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Demand for Action Against Officials
The Leader of the Opposition alleged that officials and contractual employees were being pressured during the tender process and claimed that employees opposing the alleged irregularities were being threatened with the denial of the service extension.
He urged the Chief Minister to initiate legal and departmental action against officials involved in the tender process, stating that merely cancelling the tender would not be sufficient.
Marandi also cautioned the Chief Minister that ignoring the issue could lead to consequences similar to those witnessed in the alleged liquor scam controversy.
CCTV Installation Ordered Following Court Directions
The CCTV installation project in police stations across Jharkhand is being implemented following directions issued by the courts regarding surveillance and monitoring mechanisms in police establishments.
The state government is yet to issue an official response to the allegations made by the Leader of the Opposition.