BJP, Opposition Clash Over BMC School Supplies Delay

A heated clash broke out between the ruling BJP and opposition parties at Monday's BMC General Body meeting over delays in procuring 27 essential educational items for civic school students through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal.

Shiv Sena (UBT) opposition leader Kishori Pednekar alleged serious irregularities in the procurement process and sought suspension of senior Education Department officials. She demanded a third-party audit of both the process and supply quality. Congress leader Ashraf Azmi reported that umbrellas remained undelivered, some water bottles were leaking, and shoes lacked proper sizes.

BJP corporator Swapna Mhatre defended GeM procurement, citing ₹45 crore in savings for the BMC. Education Committee Chairperson Rajeshree Shirwadkar said the new system, though still settling in after six months, was superior to the earlier contract process plagued by irregularities. BMC officials stated most supplies had been distributed, with procurement resuming in January to complete distribution before schools reopen on June 1.