Massive corruption allegation in school uniform procurement in Odisha surfaces

Allegations of massive corruption in the procurement of uniforms at various schools under Sadar block in Keonjhar have surfaced. The Self-Help Group (SHG), which has been awarded the tender to supply uniforms, has accused school authorities of procuring them from other sources instead of sourcing them through the designated SHG.

As per the allegations by the SHG, the school authorities demanded Rs 80 as a bribe per boy's uniform and Rs 120 per girl's uniform. 

According to sources, Basudev SHG had received the tender to supply uniforms to nine schools but the uniforms were reportedly purchased from other suppliers.

“We were awarded with the order to supply uniforms to nine schools. But when we visited the school, we were told that the SMC cancelled our orders. They asked us to give a percentage of Rs 120 per girl uniform and Rs 80 per boy uniform. They even distributed the uniform among students without even informing us,” alleged Damayanti Sahoo, president of Basudev SHG.

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On the other hand, the headmistress of Raisuan Primary School stated that the District Education Officer (DEO) warned the school authorities over the delay in uniform distribution which led to purchasing uniforms from alternative sources to avoid further delay.

“The DEO warned us over delay in uniform distribution. The deadline for uniform distribution was November 14. When I saw other schools had already distributed uniforms, I procured it from outside,” said Pankajini, headmistress of Raisuan Primary School.

As per the rules, the SHGs are responsible for supplying uniforms through tenders and the district Collector can only make changes in the tender process. 

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Now questions are being raised as to why the school authorities violated the rules and procured uniforms from other suppliers.

Meanwhile, the District Education Officer Gourirani Naik has assured a proper investigation into the matter. 

“We will launch an investigation into the matter and necessary action will be taken against those who have violated the guideline,” Naik said.