Srinagar, Feb 27 (JKNS): The Association of Outdoor Advertisement Kashmir has sought cancellation of the allotment for installation and operation of static advertisement panels within the limits of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation, alleging non-compliance with mandatory tender conditions by the nominated bidder.
In a formal representation addressed to the SMC authorities on January 20, a copy of which JKNS has accessed, the Association stated that, as per the explicit terms of the tender notice, the successful bidder was required to deposit the first instalment of the bid amount within seven days as per the tender conditions.
The Association alleged that the nominated bidder failed to deposit the first instalment within the stipulated timeframe but the installment remains pending till date.
Describing the lapse as a “serious material deviation” from the notified tender conditions, the Association asserted that non-deposition of the instalment amounts to a breach of the tender conditions and warrants automatic cancellation of the allotment. It further alleged that any post-tender relaxation of mandatory financial conditions would contravene the principles of transparency, fairness and equal opportunity that form the foundation of the public bidding process.
As per the tender conditions, the allottees were required to ensure clear and timely payments; however, at present, the SMC is incurring a monthly loss of around Rs 50 lakh from last few months.
The Association alleged the issue was discussed in a duly convened meeting, where members expressed concern that no such relaxation was envisaged in the tender notice or extended to local advertising agencies.
The Association maintained that several members would have participated in the bidding process had such conditions been clearly reflected in the tender document.
Citing a resolution passed during the meeting, the Association demanded cancellation of the allotment on account of non-compliance with mandatory tender conditions as well as forfeiture of the Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) as per the provisions of the tender notice.
The association also demanded Initiation of a fresh and transparent re-tendering process, ensuring equal opportunity to all eligible agencies with clearly defined terms and conditions. Despite repeated attempts concerned SMC authorities could not be contacted for comments. (JKNS)
