India, Feb. 4 -- Serious irregularities have been alleged in the tender process floated by the Panvel Municipal Corporation for installing a gate pump system at Kalamboli Pond, raising concerns over cartelisation, abuse of authority and violations of procurement and vigilance norms.

The controversy has intensified as the matter is currently sub judice before the Bombay High Court, yet the civic body is accused of proceeding hastily towards awarding the contract. Stakeholders have flagged this move as undermining judicial oversight, particularly after objections were raised by established firms such as Welspun Michigan Adroit.

At the centre of the dispute is a mandatory Manufacturer's Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) clause, which criti...