The Gujarat Congress has accused the state government of orchestrating a Rs 8.5 crore scam under the Saraswati Sadhana Yojana, claiming inflated prices, rigged tenders and deliberate delays in distributing bicycles meant for underprivileged SC, ST and OBC girls. The opposition has demanded an investigation, alleging that the scheme was manipulated to benefit BJP-linked companies at the expense of taxpayers and vulnerable students.
Gujarat Pradesh Congress spokesperson Dr Manish Doshi highlighted irregularities in the tender process, claiming bicycles purchased for Rs 4,444 in Gujarat are being supplied at Rs 3,857 in Rajasthan. “With 1.7 lakh bicycles procured at Rs 500 above market rates, the corruption totals Rs 8.5 crore,” Doshi alleged, questioning the government’s motives.
Doshi criticised the government for failing to distribute bicycles in June 2023. “The process was delayed intentionally, including the tender for procurement,” he said.
He further alleged manipulation of tender rules to favour companies linked to the ruling party. “Specifications were altered and direct tenders were issued without consulting the Quality Control Centre, benefiting companies funding the BJP’s election campaign,” Doshi claimed.
The Congress spokesperson accused the government of overspending to secure party finances. “Why would the government willingly pay Rs 500 more per bicycle than other states? The answer is clear—it’s about election funds,” he said.
The quality of the bicycles has also come under scrutiny. Doshi claimed that over 50,000 bicycles were scrapped across 15 districts, including Ankleshwar, Kheda and Vadodara, due to defects.
He also highlighted objections raised by the Gujarat Rural Industries Marketing Corporation (GRIMC) during the tender process.
“GRIMC noted the bid price was Rs 587 higher than Rajasthan’s and Rs 425 more than West Bengal’s. Despite this, the government ignored calls to cancel the bid and awarded the contract,” he said.
Four months into the new academic year, Doshi alleged, bicycles meant for poor girls remain undelivered.
“An investigation is needed to uncover whose instructions caused this delay and who benefited. The quality of the bicycles must be checked and action must be taken against the company and officials involved,” he demanded.
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