We would only seek the details about the names of the firms and contractors — both local and non-local — who are engaged with the NEIGRIHMS, says KHADC CEM
SHILLONG, April 28: The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) has decided to write to NEIGRIHMS director, Prof Nalin Mehta, seeking details on the firms, traders and contractors that are associated with the institute for supply of materials, taking up contract work, et al.
This decision was taken after the Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) informed KHADC CEM Pyniaid Sing Syiem about a non-tribal contractor, who was reportedly awarded a tender by NEIGRHIMS without obtaining the trading license from the Council.
Clarifying that he has nothing to comment about the particular contractor who was awarded the contract by NEIGRHIMS, Syiem said the KHADC would only seek the details about the names of the firms and contractors — both local and non-local — who are engaged with the institute.
“We would like to know how many firms from outside have obtained the trading licenses from the Council,” the KHADC CEM said.
He admitted that the provision laid down in the Trading By Non-Tribal Regulation has clearly stated that it is mandatory for any non-tribal trader or any firm from outside Meghalaya to obtain the trading license before taking part in any tenders.
However, he continued, the District Council Affairs (DCA) department had issued a notification in 2015 where it was stated that big firms or companies or any traders from outside can participate in any tender that has been floated.
Informing that the notification had also mentioned that they are free to obtain the trading licenses after being awarded the contract or tender, Syiem said, “This notification issued by the DCA has affected the council. But we cannot do anything since this notification is yet to be revoked by the government.”
Earlier, the KHNAM had urged the KHADC not to issue trading license to a non-tribal contractor for a project at NEIGRIHMS.
The KHNAM had alleged that the contractor did not bother to obtain the trading license from the KHADC despite directions from the NEIGRIHMS authorities.