Are There Irregularities in the Tendering of 'Dial 112'?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Concerns raised by Digvijaya Singh regarding the tendering process.
- Demand for an investigation into alleged irregularities.
- Importance of transparency in public service procurement.
- Dial 112 combines multiple emergency services for public convenience.
- Initial controversy over missing vehicle keys shortly after the launch.
Bhopal, Sep 4 (NationPress) Former Chief Minister and Rajya Sabha MP, Digvijaya Singh, addressed a letter to Madhya Pradesh's Director General of Police (DGP) Kailash Makwana on Thursday, expressing concerns regarding potential irregularities in the tendering process for 'Dial 112'.
In his correspondence, the seasoned Congress leader highlighted that discrepancies may have arisen during the second phase of vehicle acquisitions for the 'Dial 112' initiative and has called for a thorough investigation into these claims.
“I have been informed that irregularities have taken place in the second phase of the tendering process for 'Dial 112' of the Madhya Pradesh police. As a result, doubts are being raised regarding the absence of transparency and fairness,” his letter stated.
Furthermore, the Congress leader pointed out that various public organizations have raised questions about the irregularities in the tendering process, having also submitted relevant documents.
“I kindly urge you (DGP) to investigate this matter and hold accountable those who are implicated in these irregularities,” Singh urged in his letter.
He also claimed that he had attached a collection of documents indicating irregularities in the tendering process.
It is essential to note that 'Dial-112' serves as the First Response Vehicles (FRVs) under the emergency service, officially launched by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav in the presence of DGP Makwana on August 14, with a total of 1200 vehicles initiated.
This new service has replaced the previous emergency response service 'Dial 100'. Moreover, other emergency services such as ambulance, fire, women’s helpline, cybercrime, highway accident response, disaster relief, and child protection will now be accessible through the single number - 'Dial 112'.
The controversy regarding the lack of transparency and the alleged irregularities has arisen swiftly. Notably, the issues began as soon as the scheme was launched when keys for several 'Dial 112' vehicles went missing, necessitating the administration to source duplicate keys. However, reports later confirmed the original keys were eventually located.