Should Governor Probe Alleged Irregularities in Tourism Dept E-Tenders?

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Should Governor Probe Alleged Irregularities in Tourism Dept E-Tenders?

Synopsis

Kolkata's political landscape is heating up as Suvendu Adhikari demands an investigation into claims of corruption in the tourism directorate's e-tendering process. With a whistleblower's shocking revelations, will the Governor take action? Dive into the unfolding drama of accountability and transparency in West Bengal.

Key Takeaways

  • Demand for Transparency: The call for a probe underscores the public's demand for accountability in government operations.
  • Whistleblower's Role: Whistleblowers play a crucial role in exposing corruption and irregularities.
  • Political Tensions: The situation reflects ongoing political tensions in West Bengal.
  • Threats to Officials: Allegations of threats against honest officials raise concerns about the safety of those speaking out.
  • Need for Action: The response of the government will be pivotal in addressing public trust issues.

Kolkata, June 5 (NationPress) The Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, has called upon Governor C.V. Ananda Bose to launch an investigation into purported irregularities within the e-tendering system of the state tourism directorate. This request follows disclosures made by a whistleblower from within the agency.

Adhikari referenced an email from Shubhabrata Pramanick, a project officer with the tourism directorate, directed to various media outlets.

In this correspondence, Pramanick accused the e-tender process of being manipulated to benefit select agencies, thus undermining both transparency and fairness.

Adhikari mentioned four agencies and two individuals who, as per the whistleblower, have reportedly profited from the compromised tenders for prominent events like the Red Road Carnival and the Kolkata Book Fair.

He further asserted that honest officials are being threatened and pressured to enable these irregularities while remaining silent.

"The citizens of Bengal deserve transparency and accountability, not a government that flourishes on corruption and intimidation," asserted Adhikari.

He also challenged Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to permit a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into this issue.

"If the Chief Minister genuinely champions clean governance, she must demonstrate this by ordering a CBI investigation. Her silence or inaction will only deepen public suspicion that corruption is ingrained in her administration," he added.

To date, there has been no formal response from the state government or the Trinamool Congress regarding these claims.

Meanwhile, the email acquired by IANS indicates that Pramanick possesses documentary proof to back his allegations and intends to disclose it at an opportune moment.

He also claimed to have faced threats of harassment for refusing to comply with directives to facilitate the manipulated tendering process.

Point of View

I believe that the allegations made by Suvendu Adhikari highlight a critical need for transparency in governance. The claims of corruption within the tourism department cannot be overlooked, and a thorough investigation is essential to uphold public trust.
NationPress
26/07/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the allegations against the tourism department?
The allegations suggest that the e-tendering process has been manipulated to favor certain agencies, compromising transparency and fairness.
Who is the whistleblower?
The whistleblower is Shubhabrata Pramanick, a project officer in the tourism directorate, who has raised concerns through an email to media outlets.
What actions has Suvendu Adhikari taken?
Suvendu Adhikari has urged Governor C.V. Ananda Bose to investigate the alleged irregularities and challenged Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to allow a CBI probe.
What do the allegations imply about the current government?
The allegations imply a potential culture of corruption and intimidation within the government, hindering transparent governance.
Is there any response from the government?
As of now, there has been no official response from the state government or the Trinamool Congress concerning the allegations.