Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet
HP Govt orders probe in tourism dept tender matter
Shimla, Oct 18
The State Government Initiates High-Level probe into a Himachal Pradesh tourism department tender matter.
In a significant development, the state government has launched a high-level investigation into the alleged tender scam within the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Department that purportedly occurred during the previous BJP administration.
IAS and Special Secretary of Education, Pankaj Rai, have been tasked with delivering a comprehensive fact-finding report within a strict 15-day timeframe.
The probe’s primary objective is to meticulously examine the tender documents originating from the Tourism Department. Grave allegations have emerged, suggesting that fraudulent activities influenced the selection of advertising agencies to favor certain individuals. Subsequently, upon discovering these allegations, the Principal Secretary of Tourism has initiated an inquiry.
It is strongly suspected that numerous officials from the Tourism Department may have been involved in these irregularities, and it is anticipated that punitive measures will be taken against those found guilty.
The Vice President of the Himachal Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) and MLA from Nagrota Bagwan, RS Bali, has been called upon to lead the investigation into the alleged irregularities in the tender process.
The matter first garnered public attention during the BJP’s tenure, but it was only after a change in government that a comprehensive inquiry was initiated following a preliminary investigation by the state agency.
Bali personally reviewed the records of the tender process, revealing significant irregularities. In response, he penned a letter to the departmental secretary, urging a thorough investigation into the tender process and demanding strict action against any officials found guilty of wrongdoing.
It has come to light that the department awarded advertisements worth lakhs of rupees, with the funds sourced from external aided loans for the execution of development projects. The Tourism Department regularly issued advertisements through private agencies, in addition to substantial expenditures on promotional materials such as hoardings, constituting a highly lucrative business.
These circumstances have led to allegations of collusion among officials, with tenders potentially being awarded to their close associates. This investigation aims to uncover the truth behind these allegations and ensure accountability in the administration of public resources within the tourism department.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
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