Gujarat graft watchdog wants port deal probed
By IANSThursday, August 19, 2010
GANDHINAGAR - The Gujarat Vigilance Commission has recommended an inquiry into the Rs.127 crore deal for a system to monitor ship movements at the state’s ports, sources said here Thursday.
The 2006 deal related to awarding the contracted to Aatash Computer and Communication Ltd is now being probed by the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB), following the corruption watchdog’s recommendation.
The inquiry was initiated in the wake of allegations that the company had submitted fake documents to project its experience in the field.
The allegations against the company include that it had submitted fake documents of experience in providing high security devices at a temple and a port in Mumbai.
Sources in Chief Minister Narendra Modi’s office confirmed that the GMB has set up an inquiry committee to look into the matter.
Transport Secretary B.K. Sinha said he was unaware of the Rs.127 crore project but assured that no malpractice would be tolerated.
Leader of the Congress opposition in assembly Shaktisinh Gohil Wednesday levelled serious allegations against the company stating that the project cost of the system was originally Rs.25 crore, and had been inflated to Rs.127 crore through corrupt measures.
The company signed the deal to supply vessel traffic management system for 11 GMB ports during the “Vibrant Gujarat” summit in 2006.
