CBI to probe breach of rules in National Museum contract

Aug 13, 2011 - PRAMOD KUMAR |

Age Correspondent

New Delhi

The CBI has registered a preliminary enquiry (PE) against two senior officials of the National Museum to probe their role in alleged irregularities in awarding contract of maintenance and storage of museum items in 2008.

According to sources, there are allegations of criminal misconduct against two senior officials. The PE has been registered against the then museum director and curator. The role of the private company which was awarded the contract is also being probed, sources added.
“There are reports that the contract was awarded to the company without inviting tenders. The agency is also probing other irregularities,” sources said. The agency has collected sufficient evidence.
The irregularities in awarding the contract caused huge loss to the exchequer and wrongful gain to the company. A team of CBI officials will soon visit National Museum to collect crucial documents related to the contract, sources said adding if required the agency sleuths will also record statements of certain officials.
“The agency registered its PE on August 5 on the basis of complaint received by it. Now, the officials are likely to meet the then director to seek his clarification over certain issues. The agency will register a regular case only after seeking clarifications from all those under the scanner, including the then curator,” sources said.
The agency is expected to complete its probe under the PE by October 30. The CBI will convert its PE into a regular case only after finding prima facie evidence of criminality.

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