BRS seeks Centre’s probe into Anganwadi smartphone procurement in Telangana
The BRS has urged Union Minister Annapurna Devi to initiate a probe into alleged irregularities in the procurement of smartphones for Anganwadi workers in Telangana under the Poshan Abhiyan scheme.
Hyderabad: Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) has written to Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annapurna Devi seeking a detailed probe into alleged irregularities in the procurement of smartphones for Anganwadi workers in Telangana under the Poshan Abhiyan scheme.
In a letter, the BRS spokesperson Krishank Manne raised concerns over discrepancies in specifications, stating that while 4G phones were distributed, they were promoted as 5G devices. He alleged this amounted to misleading information and deviation from norms.
Krishank said a section officer who denied approval for tender notification after noticing major discrepancies, was transferred to another post immediately, before inviting fresh tender.
He also questioned the inflated pricing of the devices at Rs 11,800 each which was higher than the market rate of Rs 6,990 without GST. He said bulk procurement should have reduced prices further, raising suspicion of financial irregularities and misuse of Central funds.
Krishank questioned the lack of transparency in the tender process involving over 38,310 devices. He pointed to repeated tender cancellations, alleging that conditions might have been altered to favour select contractors.
The BRS leader further questioned the accountability of the State Women and Child Welfare Department, citing conflicting statements from Minister Danasari Anasuya alias Seethakka, regarding the department’s role in the procurement.
Seeking urgent intervention, he urged the Centre to order an independent audit, obtain a detailed report from the State government, and initiate an inquiry through Central agencies if required.
