Bhopal, August 22: Jitu Patwari, the president of the Congress party’s Madhya Pradesh unit, has written to Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, urging a high-level investigation into the liquor tender process.
In his letter, Patwari highlighted that from 2012-13 to 2026-27, a few select companies have maintained a dominant influence in the liquor business. Allegations suggest that four groups control nearly 70 percent of the market, consistently winning tenders in several districts for years. If these claims are accurate, it raises serious questions about the transparency and fairness of the entire tender system in the state.
Patwari pointed out that despite the implementation of an online tender system, the results continue to reflect old patterns. He emphasized that the government must provide a clear explanation to the public regarding this issue. Following the Indian Competition Commission’s actions in 2022, if the same situation is re-emerging, a fair investigation is crucial.
He questioned whether the government is prioritizing the interests of liquor businessmen, who generate revenue in the thousands of crores, over the state’s revenue and public welfare. Patwari stated that the government’s duty is not to protect any business group but to ensure fair competition while safeguarding state revenue and public interest.
Patwari has demanded an independent and high-level audit of all major liquor tenders in the state from 2012-13 to the present. He called for full disclosure of which companies have received tenders in which districts over the years. Additionally, he insisted that details regarding the companies participating in each tender, their bids, eligibility, and the final selection process should be made public.
He also requested an investigation to determine if any company or group of companies has influenced market competition. If there are suspicions of collusion, cartel behavior, or any collusion between officials and companies, an independent inquiry should be conducted.
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