Bribery allegations surface as CCB probes garbage disposal tenders

Bengaluru: The Central Crime Branch (CCB) of the Bengaluru police has registered an FIR and launched an investigation into alleged irregularities in garbage disposal tenders in the city.

The FIR was filed on January 30 under IPC Sections 120B (criminal conspiracy), 420 (cheating), and 426 (mischief), along with relevant provisions of the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement Act.

The complaint was lodged by Basavaraju R Kabade, General Manager (Tech) of Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Ltd (BSWML).

The FIR stated on January 21, 2023, the BBMP’s solid waste management arm floated tenders for collecting segregated wet, dry, and sanitary waste from households and small commercial establishments in 243 wards, divided into 89 work packages.

It is alleged that the contractors colluded, forming a nexus and placing bids in groups in violation of the tender rules. The FIR also notes that the bid amounts were 50-60% higher than the estimated cost.

The alleged irregularities came to light after Vision Man Power, SLV Traders Pvt Ltd, and 15 other agencies raised complaints. The FIR states that the tender process had to be halted due to these violations, leading to significant financial losses to the exchequer.

Earlier this week, CCB investigators raided the offices of contractors under suspicion. During questioning, sources indicate that some contractors allegedly named senior IAS officers, accusing them of demanding bribes.