Dharavi redevelopment: Supreme Court issues notice on UAE firm’s plea against award of tender to Adani
The Supreme Court of India has issued notices to the Maharashtra government and Adani Properties regarding a plea by UAE-based Seclink Technologies Corporation. Seclink challenged the award of the Dharavi redevelopment project to the Adani Group after its initial bid was canceled and a fresh tender was issued in 2022.
Initial Bid: In 2018, Seclink Technologies emerged as the highest bidder for the Dharavi redevelopment project with an offer of ₹7,200 crore.
Cancellation and Re-tendering: The Maharashtra government canceled the tender in 2020, citing changes in economic conditions and the inclusion of additional railway land. A new tender was issued in 2022, which Adani Properties won with a bid of ₹5,069 crore.
Challenge: Seclink challenged the cancellation of its bid and the award to Adani, alleging a lack of transparency and fairness in the process.
Supreme Court Decision
No Stay: The Supreme Court refused to stay the project, noting that work had already begun.
Escrow Account: The court ordered that all project payments be made through an escrow account to ensure transparency.
Notice Issued: The court issued notices to the Maharashtra government and Adani Properties regarding Seclink’s proposal to increase its bid by 20% to ₹8,640 crore, which is higher than Adani’s effective bid of ₹7,869 crore when including additional obligations.
Next Steps
Affidavit Required: Seclink has been directed to file an affidavit detailing its revised bid offer.
Hearing Scheduled: The next hearing is set for May 25, 2025.
