In a significant move, the Supreme Court probe Arunachal Pradesh government contracts CAG investigation transparency accountability governance regarding contract allocations during the period of 2007-2011. The accusations center around suspected favoritism towards the Chief Minister’s relatives in contract awards, bypassing standard tendering procedures. Supreme Court’s directives highlights the crucial need for transparency and accountability in governmental processes.
Background:
- Originates from a Special Leave Petition (SLP) filed by the Voluntary Arunachal Senaa, an NGO, in 2010.
- Elevated to the Supreme Court after petitioner challenged a ruling of the Gauhati High Court.
- Initial hesitation due to time lapse between alleged misconduct and hearing.
- Senior advocate Prashant Bhushan, representing the petitioner, presents compelling arguments highlighting irregularities.
Constitutional and Legal Framework:
- Constitutional provisions emphasize principles of fairness, equality, and non-discrimination in government actions.
- Legal framework includes procurement laws and guidelines to ensure transparency and competition in contract awards.
- Judiciary acts as guardian of these principles, intervening when deviations occur, ensuring adherence to the rule of law.
History:
- During late Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu’s tenure, concerns arose over preferential treatment in contract allocations to family members.
- Investigation extends beyond Khandu’s administration to include current Chief Minister, Pema Khandu.
- Involvement of successive administrations underscores the need for thorough investigation to uphold accountability and justice.
Key Aspects:
- Judicial Intervention: Supreme Court’s directive signifies judiciary’s proactive role in upholding transparency and accountability.
- Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)Involvement: Engagement of CAG ensures independent and impartial investigation into allegations.
- Ethical Governance: Investigation to address ethicality of awarding contracts to relatives of executive head and establish clear guidelines for such allocations.
- Scrutiny of Governance Practices: Broader examination of governance practices to ensure adherence to established norms and rule of law.
The Supreme Court’s directive to investigate allegations against the Arunachal Pradesh state government underscores a commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical governance. By broadening the investigation’s scope and involving the CAG, the court has taken a significant step towards ensuring judicious allocation of public resources. Upholding principles of fairness and impartiality will be essential as the investigation progresses, reaffirming citizens’ trust in democratic institutions and the rule of law.
Source- Financial Express
