Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary Investigates PHED Tender Irregularities

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary announced that an investigation is underway into the cancellation of Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) tenders due to irregularities. He stated that action is being taken against those involved.

Minister of Public Health Engineering, Neeraj Kumar Singh Bablu, revealed that tenders worth over Rs 800 crore were cancelled and will be re-issued soon, with all work expected to be completed within six months. The inquiry found irregularities in the contractor selection process.

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Mrityunjay Tiwari criticized the Bihar National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government for the cancellations, suggesting it was politically motivated. In contrast, Bihar Minister Nitin Nabin defended the decision, stating that the respective minister and departmental secretary found the tenders were wrongly distributed.

The PHED is responsible for installing hand pumps and mini water supply systems in small habitats and wards. This decision follows Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s return to the NDA and a review of decisions made by departments previously led by RJD ministers.