MUMBAI, India — The Supreme Court of India has issued a notice to the Maharashtra government and Adani Group following a challenge by UAE-based Seclink Technologies Corporation against the award of the Dharavi redevelopment project to Adani. This legal move comes as Seclink disputes the process that saw the Rs 7,200 crore project awarded to Adani after its own bid was canceled.
The Dharavi redevelopment plan, an ambitious undertaking to transform one of Asia’s largest slums located in Mumbai, was initially awarded to Seclink through a tender process. However, the Maharashtra government later canceled this award and invited fresh bids, with Adani Group emerging as the top bidder in 2022 with an offer of Rs 5,069 crore.
Seclink, dissatisfied with the cancellation of its original bid, approached the courts arguing that its bid was higher and alleging procedural improprieties in the awarding of the new tender. “We have consistently maintained that our bid was more competitive,” a representative from Seclink stated, expressing disappointment over the tender process.
However, the Bombay High Court earlier upheld the Maharashtra government’s decision to cancel the initial tender and proceed with a new bidding process, finding no arbitrariness in its actions. In light of this, Seclink took the matter to the Supreme Court, which has now directed the Maharashtra government and Adani Properties to respond to its notice. The court has set the next hearing for May 25.
Despite Seclink’s challenges, the Supreme Court has refused to impose a stay on the redevelopment project, allowing Adani to continue with preliminary works. The project, which spans over 296 acres, aims to revamp the densely populated area of Dharavi into a modern urban space.
The Supreme Court’s decision not to halt the project reflects its stance on ensuring that developmental works that have commenced should not be unduly impeded. However, it has sought assurances that obligations related to the project are met and has mandated that all financial transactions pertaining to the project be conducted through a single escrow account.
The Dharavi redevelopment project holds significant socio-economic implications, aiming to provide improved housing, infrastructure, and economic opportunities for millions residing in the slum. Official reactions from the Maharashtra state government reiterate their commitment to a transparent and fair process, emphasizing the project’s potential to benefit the local population.
As the Supreme Court prepares to further deliberate on the matter, the legal wrangle over one of the largest redevelopment projects in India underscores the complexities involved in balancing developmental gains with procedural fairness.
