Behind Closed Doors: Corruption Uncovered in Delhi Metro's Top Management

New Delhi, India (Urban Transport News): In a startling revelation, serious allegations of corruption within the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) have been brought to light through a complaint filed under the Public Interest Disclosure (PID) protocol. The complaint, addressed to Mr. Anurag Jain, Secretary of Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA), Nirman Bhawan in New Delhi, paints a grim picture of gross irregularities in the selection of directors, awarding of civil engineering contracts at inflated rates, and extensions granted beyond the age of 60 to privileged officials of DMRC.

The complaint alleges that the selection process for directors at DMRC has been marred by manipulation and favoritism. It accuses the current Managing Director, Mr. Vikas Kumar, of deliberately creating vacancies to accommodate his preferred candidates. Specifically, it points to the vacancies for Director Projects and Director Infrastructure, which were allegedly kept open to allow two favored officers, Mr. A.B. Khare and Mr. A.K. Kankane, to join the organization.

Both officers, belonging to the IRSE cadre of the 1987 batch, are said to have struck a deal with the MD to secure internal positions, despite lacking relevant experience in metro systems. The complaint alleges that the MD used discretionary powers to manipulate eligibility criteria, bypassing more qualified internal candidates.

Another grave accusation centers around the awarding of civil engineering contracts at exorbitant rates. Specifically, the construction of a 6.1-kilometer underground Metro from Aerocity to Kishangarh allegedly incurred losses to the tune of Rs. 362 crore due to inflated contract rates. The complaint suggests that DMRC officials inflated the estimated cost of the project to justify awarding the contract at a significantly higher rate, benefiting the agency J. Kumar Infraprojects.

Furthermore, the complaint highlights the issue of extensions granted to select officials beyond the age of 60, contrary to government policies mandating retirement at that age. Shockingly, over 50 officers are reported to be working beyond retirement age, with some even surpassing the age of 63. This raises serious questions about adherence to government regulations and accountability within DMRC.

These allegations point to systemic corruption and malpractice within DMRC's top management. The complainant urges a thorough investigation to hold accountable those responsible for these irregularities. Additionally, it underscores the need for transparency and adherence to government policies in the functioning of public sector organizations like DMRC.

As the allegations continue to unfold, it is imperative for authorities to heed the call for investigation and take appropriate action to address the grave concerns raised. The outcome of this investigation not only impacts DMRC's operations but also sets a precedent for accountability and integrity in India's public sector.