CBI: The FIR even named eight officers of the NISP and NMDC and two officers of MECON for allegedly receiving bribes.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken action against Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Ltd (MEIL) and several officials from NMDC Iron and Steel Plant and the Ministry of Steel for alleged corruption in a project worth Rs 315 crore.
According to a report by news agency PTI, the case involves the execution of a project for the National Integrated Steel Plant (NISP).
Allegations Against Officials
In addition to MEIL, eight officers from the NISP and NMDC, along with two officials from MECON, have been named in the FIR.
They are accused of receiving bribes totaling around Rs 78 lakh in exchange for clearing bills amounting to Rs 174 crore for Megha Engineering. These bills are related to works associated with the Jagdalpur integrated steel plant.
Electoral Bond Controversy
The scrutiny on Megha Engineering intensified after the Election Commission of India (ECI) published details of electoral bond transactions since 2019, as per the Supreme Court’s directives. Megha Engineering emerged as one of the top donors on the list, having purchased electoral bonds worth Rs 1,186 crore.
According to the disclosed information, the Hyderabad-based company and its associated entity, Western UP Power Transmission Co., made significant contributions to various political parties.
This included donations of Rs 195 crore to BRS, Rs 85 crore to DMK, Rs 37 crore to YSRCP, Rs 25 crore to TDP, Rs 17 crore to Congress, and smaller sums to parties like JD-S, Jana Sena Party, and JD-U.
Chronology of Events
The FIR filed by the CBI stems from a preliminary inquiry initiated on August 10, 2023, regarding alleged bribery in the Rs 315 crore project awarded to MEIL. The inquiry focused on works related to an intake well, pump house, and cross-country pipeline at the Jagdalpur integrated steel plant.
Subsequently, based on the findings of the preliminary inquiry, a recommendation was made on March 18 to register a regular case. This recommendation was acted upon, and the case was officially registered on March 31.
Conclusion
The allegations of corruption against Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Ltd, coupled with its significant electoral bond transactions, have drawn attention to the company’s activities.
The investigation by the CBI underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in public procurement and political funding, highlighting the need for stringent measures to combat corruption in both sectors.
