The Andhra Pradesh Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has launched an investigation into alleged tender irregularities at the Guntur Municipal Corporation (GMC). This inquiry, initiated on August 24, 2026, focuses on discrepancies in tender processing for 156 works awarded between the financial years 2017-18 and 2024-25. The investigation follows a private complaint and highlights significant concerns regarding the integrity of public procurement processes.
Details of the Investigation
The ACB’s investigation into the GMC involves a thorough examination of tender-related files and processes. Allegations suggest that discrepancies exist between the tender percentages listed on the e-procurement platform and those recorded in work orders. Investigators are scrutinising payments that may have been released based on manipulated percentages, potentially leading to financial losses for the civic body. The works under scrutiny include various civil contracts such as CC roads, drainage channels, and water pipelines, which are critical for urban infrastructure.
Allegations of Manipulation
One of the key allegations involves contractors securing work without adhering to the prescribed tender process. Reports indicate that some contractors would initially quote a significant reduction in their tender bids, only to alter this figure in the work order. For instance, a reduction initially set at 25% could be changed to just 2.5%, creating a substantial discrepancy in the contract value. This manipulation raises serious questions about the fairness and transparency of the tendering process, potentially undermining competition and leading to inflated costs for the municipality.
Role of Political Influence
The inquiry also delves into claims of contractor syndicates that may have limited competition in the tendering process. Allegations suggest that local political leaders and corporators may have employed benami contractors to secure these works, further complicating the integrity of the procurement system. The ACB is investigating the involvement of various officials, including junior technical officers and superintending engineers, to establish a comprehensive understanding of the alleged misconduct and its implications for public procurement.
| Label | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Works Under Investigation | 156 |
| Financial Years Covered | 2017-18 to 2024-25 |
| Percentage Change Alleged | 22.5 percentage points |
| Key Officials Involved | ACB Guntur Range DSP T.V.V. Pratap Kumar and team |
The investigation by the ACB into Guntur Municipal Corporation underscores the need for transparency in public procurement processes.
WHY IT MATTERS
This investigation highlights critical issues in public procurement integrity, emphasizing the need for robust mechanisms to ensure transparency and fair competition.
Reported from thehindu.com, 2026-08-24. The Tender Wire is published by Otnox.
