Mumbai EOW Registers Four Cases in Major Solar Tender Fraud
The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Mumbai has taken decisive action by registering four separate cases against a group of companies. These firms are accused of orchestrating a sophisticated fraud scheme, allegedly defrauding the Maharashtra state government of a staggering Rs 122.9 crore. The fraudulent activity is centered on the Solar Agriculture Energy Channel 2.0 tender process, a critical initiative designed to provide daytime electricity to farmers across the state.
Details of the Alleged Fraud Scheme
According to official statements from the EOW, the accused companies are alleged to have submitted fake bank guarantees during the tender process. These guarantees were reportedly prepared using counterfeit rubber stamps, enabling the firms to enter into power purchase agreements under false pretenses. The scheme specifically targeted the solar agriculture energy channel, which aims to enhance power availability for agricultural operations during daylight hours, thereby supporting the farming community.
The investigation was initiated based on a formal complaint filed by the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL). In response, the EOW has booked the directors of several companies involved in the alleged fraud. The list of implicated firms includes Nacoff Urja, NOPL Projects, Integration Induction Power, IIPL Three Hingoli, IIPL Four Parbhani, Nacoff Urja-NOPL Pace Green Energy, Onix Renewable, and Onix IPP.
Broader Context of Solar Project Frauds
This recent development is not an isolated incident. Earlier this month, the EOW registered another significant case involving a solar power project. In that instance, three directors of a Gujarat-based company, Om Yash CJR Lamat Via Projects, along with an assistant general manager from MSEDCL, were booked. They are accused of submitting a forged bank guarantee worth Rs 99.5 crore during a bidding process for a separate solar power initiative.
The consecutive cases highlight a troubling pattern of financial misconduct within the renewable energy sector, particularly in solar project tenders. Authorities are intensifying their scrutiny to prevent such fraudulent activities, which not only cause substantial financial losses but also undermine public trust in government schemes aimed at sustainable development.
As the investigations proceed, the EOW is expected to delve deeper into the modus operandi of the accused companies and individuals. The focus will be on uncovering the full extent of the fraud and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable under the law. This crackdown serves as a stern warning to other entities that might consider engaging in similar deceptive practices in public tenders.
