ACC seeks UGC action over CoU tender irregularities

The Anti-Corruption Commission has asked the University Grants Commission to take necessary measures over alleged irregularities in a computer procurement tender at Comilla University after a media report indicated financial losses to the state.

In an official letter dated January 22, signed by ACC Daily and Contemporary Affairs Cell Director Flora Bilkis Jahan, the anti-graft body said it had taken cognisance of a report published on May 7, 2025, which alleged that the government suffered a loss of Tk 9,94,350 in the university’s computer purchase process.

Comilla University Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mohammad Haidar Ali confirmed that the ACC letter had been received by the registrar’s office.

Following the report, the ACC directed the UGC to take appropriate action regarding the allegations.
According to tender documents, Comilla University floated a tender on December 22, 2024, seeking bids for the procurement of computers. A total of seven firms, including Walton Digi-Tech Industries Ltd, Soft Tech, Smart Technologies (BD) Ltd, Creators Computers and Global Brand Ltd, participated in the bidding.

Among the bidders, Walton submitted the lowest quotation of Tk 46,40,550, while Soft Tech offered Tk 55,91,900 and Smart Technologies (BD) Ltd quoted Tk 56,34,900.

Despite not being the lowest bidder, Smart Technologies was awarded the contract.

Under the existing public procurement rules, contracts are usually awarded to the lowest responsive bidder unless there are justified reasons for selecting otherwise.

Walton later lodged a complaint with the Public Procurement Authority. After reviewing the matter, the authority found that the evaluation committee failed to maintain transparency in the tender process, causing an estimated loss of Tk 9,94,350 to the government.

Contacted over the issue, UGC Chairman Prof Dr Mamun Ahmed said he was unaware of the matter and suggested contacting the Public University Management Division for details.

However, repeated attempts to reach the division’s director Mohammad Jaminur Rahman for comments proved unsuccessful.

“You may contact the registrar’s office for details,” he said.

Acting Registrar Prof Dr Mohammad Anwar Hossain said the ACC sought clarification from the UGC based on the media report and the university had already submitted its explanation through the commission.

“We have informed the UGC of our position. The issue with Walton has been resolved,” he said.
Attempts to contact ACC official Flora Bilkis Jahan for further comments were unsuccessful.