Is the Congress Party Set to Terminate the Turkish Firm's Metro Rail Ticketing Contract?
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Synopsis
The Congress party is ramping up pressure against the Turkish firm Asis Elektronik, which won the AFC contract for the Indore Metro Rail Project. With allegations of links to a defense company supplying drones to Pakistan, the political landscape is heating up as protests loom.
Key Takeaways
- Congress intensifies opposition to a Turkish firm over alleged defense links.
- Contract worth Rs 186.52 crore awarded to Asis Elektronik for metro projects.
- Seven-day ultimatum issued for removal of Turkish equipment.
- Government promises investigation into potential national security risks.
- Installation work continues amid rising tensions.
Bhopal, May 21 (NationPress) The Congress party has escalated its opposition against the Turkish company Asis Elektronik, which was awarded the Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) contract for the Indore Metro Rail Project in 2024 after a tender process initiated in 2022.
This four-year contract, worth Rs 186.52 crore, is integral to the Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MPMRCL) initiative aimed at modernizing fare collection systems for the upcoming metro projects in both Indore and Bhopal.
Asis Elektronik secured the contract for implementing an open-loop Common Mobility Card-based AFC system and QR code ticketing infrastructure, building on their previous experience with similar projects in Pune, Kochi, and Mumbai.
However, concerns have emerged regarding its alleged connections to Asis Guard, a Turkish defense firm accused of supplying drones to Pakistan.
Congress leaders have issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Metro Corporation, demanding the removal of Turkish-manufactured equipment and threatening to initiate widespread protests if their demands are not met.
During a recent protest, Congress representatives presented a memorandum to Metro Project GM Ajay Gupta, questioning the rationale behind awarding an Indian tender to a company purportedly linked to Pakistan's defense procurement.
The contract was granted to Asis Elektronik in March 2024, raising alarms over its alleged ties to Asis Guard, which has been producing drones since 2019 and is reported to have supplied them to Pakistan.
While the specific ownership details between the two firms remain ambiguous, Congress leaders assert that the potential links deserve thorough investigation.
Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar criticized the decision on social media, questioning if the 'Make in India' initiative has devolved into mere rhetoric.
Urban Administration Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya addressed the concerns, reaffirming India's position against any affiliations with entities linked to hostile nations.
The government has launched an inquiry into possible connections between Asis Elektronik and anti-India factions. Should any ties be confirmed, authorities have pledged to terminate the contract, underscoring their commitment to national security.
In the meantime, installation efforts continue at various metro stations throughout Indore and Bhopal.
Point of View
The Congress party's actions reflect a growing sensitivity towards national security concerns and local governance in India. The scrutiny over Asis Elektronik's alleged ties to a foreign defense company raises essential questions about the integrity of public contracts and the safeguarding of national interests.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Indore Metro Rail Project?
The Indore Metro Rail Project aims to establish efficient public transport in Indore, enhancing connectivity and urban mobility.
Why is Congress opposing Asis Elektronik?
Congress is opposing Asis Elektronik due to alleged links to a Turkish defense company accused of supplying drones to Pakistan, raising national security concerns.
What is the value of the AFC contract?
The Automatic Fare Collection contract awarded to Asis Elektronik is valued at Rs 186.52 crore.
What are the implications of the ongoing protests?
The protests indicate rising public sentiment against foreign companies associated with adversarial nations and may impact future contract awards.
What steps has the government taken regarding this issue?
The government has initiated an investigation into Asis Elektronik's ties to anti-India elements, with a promise to terminate the contract if links are confirmed.
