The current government in Maharashtra, led by Devendra Fadnavis, has definitely set a record of sorts. No other government in the state has had as many ministers with various charges against them, from moral turpitude to financial mismanagement.

The most serious scandal in the state in recent times involves the Rs 14,000 crore tender allotted to Megha Engineering, after disqualifying L&T, whose bid was Rs 3,100 crore cheaper. The tender was divided into two parts, one for the elevated road (Thane-Ghodbunder to Bhayander), with a value of Rs 6,000 crore, where L&T’s bid was technically disqualified. The other was for a road tunnel (Gaimukh to Fountain Hotel Junction) worth Rs 8,000 crore, which was allotted to Megha Engineering, despite a higher bid by it.

On a petition filed before it by L&T, challenging its disqualification, the Supreme Court questioned the misuse of public money and questioned the government for selecting a higher bidder.

L&T has an excellent track record of work in the country, including for the Union and state governments. The Supreme Court noted L&T’s credentials, including its work on Delhi’s Central Vista, and expressed disbelief at its disqualification.

Chief Justice of India BR Gavai, who was heading the bench hearing the petition, warned that the court would stay the entire process if transparency was not maintained. Reacting to the court’s observation, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region........

© Free Press Journal