An internal vigilance report at Kochi Metro Rail Limited has flagged alleged irregularities in vehicle auctions, vehicle use and related administrative procedures, including incomplete logbooks, changes in auction records and the alleged non-publication of auction notices, according to a report by Kerala Kaumudi – Kochi.
The report said vehicle logbooks were not maintained accurately and that senior officials allegedly used official vehicles at their discretion. It also referred to the alleged regular use of company vehicles by officials in senior positions for personal requirements. In one instance, the same official is reported to have signed the logbooks of more than one vehicle.
The internal vigilance findings also criticised what it described as violations of auction conditions. The reported concerns include alterations in auction amounts and the failure to publish auction advertisements. The report reportedly contains recommendations on how future auctions should be conducted and the level of transparency required in the process.
The allegations relate to internal procedures at Kochi Metro Rail Limited, the company responsible for the operation and administration of the Kochi Metro system. The reported vehicle-related findings form part of wider concerns identified by the internal vigilance mechanism in transactions and appointments at the organisation.
Kerala Kaumudi reported that the internal vigilance document was marked for KMRL officials only but was allegedly shared with the media by Metro officials. Senior officials have reportedly recommended an investigation into how the document was leaked, with a higher-level inquiry expected to be announced shortly.
The reported leak has also intensified an existing dispute among KMRL officials, according to the newspaper. The report said one section of employees was preparing to speak publicly against alleged nepotism and favouritism in appointments by senior officials. These claims were presented as positions taken by employees and were not identified in the supplied report as findings naming specific individuals.
Although the internal vigilance report reportedly does not name officials, a section of employees has demanded that those responsible for the alleged irregularities and corruption be removed from their positions and that an investigation be initiated. The supplied report does not establish whether disciplinary action has been taken, whether a higher-level inquiry has formally begun or whether the officials referred to have responded to the allegations.
The next reported step is a higher-level investigation into the leak of the internal vigilance report. Further action on the vehicle auctions, official vehicle use and other alleged irregularities will depend on the findings and decisions of the competent authorities at KMRL.
