The directive from the J&K Government seeking details of projects awarded on a single tender basis by the Public Works (R&B) Department is a serious development that underscores deep-rooted irregularities in the tendering system. Tenders are not merely a bureaucratic formality-they are a fundamental mechanism to ensure competition, transparency, and accountability in public spending. When these norms are flouted, it not only compromises the quality of public works but also erodes public trust in governance. The very purpose of the tendering process-advertising through newspapers and now e-tendering portals-is to invite healthy competition among bidders and ensure that projects are awarded to the most competent agency at the most reasonable cost. Unfortunately, what has surfaced paints a dismal picture of how these rules are being circumvented. The allocation of works on a single-tender basis, frequent extensions of tender deadlines without justification, and alleged favouritism towards certain contractors reveal a pattern of manipulation and collusion that defeats the very intent of transparency.
Equally alarming are the revelations that several roads originally constructed under RDD’s MGNREGA and Panchayat plans were falsely shown as R&B works to divert funds. Such actions not only amount to financial misconduct but also raise questions about interdepartmental accountability and supervision. The fact that these practices have come to light only after hue and cry in the Legislative Assembly indicates that existing checks and balances have either failed or been wilfully ignored. It is reassuring that the Anti-Corruption Bureau has taken cognisance of the issue and that the Government has sought detailed reports from all Chief Engineers. But seeking reports is only the first step. The onus now lies with the UT Government to ensure a thorough, time-bound investigation. If the allegations are substantiated, all officials-regardless of rank-must face stringent action under law.
Breach of tendering rules is not a mere procedural lapse; it is a breach of public trust. Every rupee misused or diverted denies the citizens better roads, infrastructure, and development they rightfully deserve. The government must also revisit and reinforce its oversight mechanisms to understand how such large-scale violations could occur unchecked. Immediate transfers of officials under scrutiny are essential to ensure impartiality in the probe. In public works, fairness and transparency are non-negotiable.
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