Official under DVAC lens for purchase of printing press seven years ago

The official allegedly failed to execute an order forfeiting payment to a printing machine supplier due to delayed supply and unsatisfactory performance of two equipment way back in 2013.

Ten years ago, the then director of Stationery and Printing D Vivekanandan had made purchase orders for two colour printers with riders on payment if there was any delay in supply and installation. As there was a delay in supply and performance of the machines were not satisfactory 10 per cent payment was not made to the company based in Muttom, Kerala. Because the performance was not satisfactory, the then director of Stationery and Printing in 2013 had instructed to send a show-cause notice for forfeiture of balance payment. Subsequently, he was transferred and new director took charge. VA Jayanthi, the then superintendent, Q section, dealing with the subject, by abusing her position as a public servant, to favour the supplier of the machines and deriving pecuniary advantage, failed to initiate action as instructed by the director. Due to the intentional act by the accused officer, there was a loss of Rs 20 lakh to the government. Based on the findings, the DVAC registered a case against the official under the provisions of Prevention of Corruption Act.