CBI: Jain ‘tweaked’ PWD tender papers

The CBI, probing the alleged irregularities in awarding some contracts by the Public Works Department (PWD) of Delhi government involving health minister Satyendra Jain, has collected fresh documents pertaining to certain contracts from the department.

The agency, sources said, has decided to seek clarifications from two senior officials of the department in connection with the alleged irregularities in hiring 24 architects to set up a creative team for the PWD through a detective agency.

The CBI is probing the role of Mr Jain in several other contracts also pertaining to the health department. Sources said, "The CBI has scrutinised all documents pertaining to the PWD's decision to hire architects through a detective agency as part of its investigation into a regular case. It will soon be converted into a regular case. The agency has also decided to seek clarifications from two senior PWD officials". Mr Jain is holding additional charge of the PWD also.

"There are allegations that the minister tweaked the tender documents to

facilitate the contract for hiring 24 professionals who were to work on Mohalla clinics and other PWD projects", added sources.

The preliminary investigation by the agency has revealed that the detective agency was ineligible for bidding but the minister tweaked the tender process to bring it on board, they added.

“Besides, CBI is also planning to examine Mr Jain in connection with the alleged irregularities in appointment of Dr Nikunj Aggarwal as his OSD. duties”, said sources.

The agency registered the case on the basis of a complaint from Delhi government deputy secretary vigilance K.S. Meena.