Bikaner : The LPG transporters of Bikaner have expressed concerns regarding errors in the allocation of trucks under the MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) public procurement policy in Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited’s (BPCL) tender number BPCL/LPG/PKD/BIKANER/2023-28. The transporters allege that MSME beneficiaries are also being given the benefit of the general category, which is against the public tender policy and the principles of natural justice.
BPCL representatives clarified that the company is not the appropriate authority to decide on MSME guidelines and laws, and advised contacting the MSME ministry for clarity on this matter. The transporters contacted the ministry and obtained documents, which did not specify that a firm receiving MSME benefits should also receive benefits in the general category.
The transporters claim that, according to Annexure 31 of the tender, a firm should select only one of the six categories of the tender, but in practice, those selecting the MSME category are also being given the benefit of the general category. This is harming the interests of the general category. The transporters reported that BPCL officials were informed multiple times through emails and written letters, but no impartial investigation was conducted, nor was any appropriate action taken.
A prominent LPG transporter from Bikaner said, “Such policy errors are against the principles of natural justice and the interests of the general category. It is unfortunate that such discrimination is happening against the general category. We hoped our issues would be heard impartially, but that did not happen.”
When contacted, BPCL officials said they would review the matter and take appropriate action based on the guidelines received from the MSME ministry.
This issue has once again highlighted the importance of transparency and fairness in government policies and their implementation. The transporters have appealed to the government and relevant authorities to resolve this issue promptly to protect the interests of the general category and ensure proper and just adherence to the MSME policy.
