Lucknow: Signs of strict administrative action have emerged at King George’s Medical University (KGMU) over alleged irregularities in tender renewals. Vice-Chancellor Dr. Sonia Nityanand has taken a firm stand, issuing a confidential communication to the finance officer that has triggered a stir within the institution.
According to sources, the issue came to light after multiple files related to tender renewals showed delays and procedural lapses. The Vice-Chancellor not only halted several such files but also questioned the functioning of the system, directing immediate corrective measures.
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Allegations of misuse in renewals
In her directive, the Vice-Chancellor has clearly stated that, going forward, the process for selecting a new agency must begin at least three months before the expiry of any existing tender. The move aims to ensure transparency and timely completion of the process, eliminating the scope for last-minute renewals and irregular practices.
She has also warned that any negligence or deliberate delay by officials or staff will invite strict action. The directive has led to heightened activity within administrative departments, with officials rushing to review pending cases.
KGMU regularly floats tenders for a wide range of services, including procurement of medical equipment, annual maintenance of machines, manpower supply, central air conditioning maintenance, and other essential items. However, allegations have surfaced that instead of initiating fresh tenders after expiry, some contracts were being extended through renewals.
As per norms, each contract cycle should involve a fresh tendering process to maintain competition and ensure better services at fair prices. However, it is alleged that in several instances, the initiation of new tenders was deliberately delayed, allowing certain preferred agencies to continue benefiting.
Questions over administrative functioning
The matter escalated when it was found that in multiple cases, the process for appointing new agencies had not even begun three months prior to the expiry of existing tenders. Such lapses have raised serious questions about the institution’s administrative efficiency and oversight mechanisms.
Experts point out that delays in tender processes can disrupt essential services, directly impacting hospital operations. In a major government medical institution like KGMU, such inefficiencies are considered highly critical.
Stir within departments after VC’s intervention
Following the Vice-Chancellor’s strict intervention, there has been visible unrest among officials and staff associated with the tendering process. Internal reviews have been expedited, and files are being scrutinized more closely.
Sources indicate that pending and past cases may also come under investigation to identify the levels at which delays or irregularities occurred. If any wrongdoing is established, action against those responsible is likely.
