The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has directed 17 entities to immediately stop engaging in anti-competitive practices related to tenders invited by Assam Police Housing Corporation Limited.
These tenders concerned internal and external electrification work for police station buildings across Assam.
In its order dated April 7, 2026, issued under Section 27 of the Competition Act, 2002, the Commission found M/s Purbanchal Enterprise and others guilty of violating provisions of Sections 3(3)(d) read with Section 3(1) of the Act, which prohibit collusive bidding practices.
The case originated from a complaint filed on August 10, 2020, by the Office of the Accountant General (Audit), Assam. The complaint alleged manipulation in the bidding process for electrification works under the state government's Mission for Overall Improvement of Thana for Responsive Image scheme.
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After examining the evidence, the commission concluded that the entities had engaged in bid rigging through practices such as bid-rotation and cover bidding. These actions were aimed at undermining fair competition and influencing the outcome of the tendering process.
It further added that the conclusion was based on evidence such as identical mistakes in bid submissions, common IP addresses, call detail records and demand drafts bearing consecutive numbers, indicating coordinated conduct among bidders.
Accordingly, the Commission, under Section 27 (a) of the Act has directed all entities and their respective proprietors held liable in terms of the provisions of Section 48 of the Act, to cease and desist from indulging in such anti-competitive practices in the future.