The Monggar Dzongkhag Engineering Sector was involved in corrupt practices while awarding contracts to some of the construction agencies.
The investigation report, filed in by a team specially formed to handle the case, says the tender for a particular construction work was floated again and again by the engineering sector until Sonam Chophel Construction bagged it.
One of the investigating team members, Drepong Gup, Sangay Tenzin, said they divided the investigation into three categories. “Firstly, we discussed with the people involved, secondly we did the verification and finally we tackled the physical verification by visiting the construction site.”
Another member, Monggar Gup, Dechen Yeshey, said suspicion arose when there was maintenance taking place at Yadi site even before the completion of construction.
The Dzongkhag Engineer, Tshering Nidup, said he respects the decision of the house and the investigation team and refused to say more.
The Monggar Dzongda, Sherab Tenzin, on the other hand, said the issue is not as serious as it is made out to be. “Even we did not find any corruption in the case. But yes, there are some procedural lapses.”
He said this has happened because when they carry out most of the works, they normally rely on trust and confidence. “We never doubt somebody would cheat us.”
To make the contractors involved accountable, some of the members suggested the contractor be denied any future contracts.
After much discussion, the house resolved that the case will be submitted to the Dzongkhag Administration for necessary actions.
