May 05, 2026, New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered a fresh First Information Report (FIR) in connection with an alleged ₹10 crore tender fraud in the Delhi Public Works Department (PWD), based on a complaint filed by social worker Rahul Sharma, founder of the NGO Road Anti-Corruption Organization (RACO).
The FIR names Surendra Kumar Bansal, his son Vinay Bansal, and other contractors, along with unidentified public officials. They have been accused of criminal conspiracy, cheating, forgery, and corruption under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
Background of the Allegations
The case originates from a complaint filed in 2017 by Rahul Sharma, who alleged that irregularities took place in the awarding and execution of a PWD contract for the construction of a drain near NH-44 at Shani Mandir, Bakoli village in Delhi.
According to the complaint, the contract—estimated at ₹4.90 crore—was awarded at significantly reduced rates. It is alleged that required construction materials such as steel, cement, and ready-mix concrete were never actually procured. Evidence for these claims was reportedly obtained through documents accessed via the Right to Information (RTI) Act.
The complaint further alleges that fake bills were submitted to PWD authorities by Surendra Kumar Bansal and associated entities, including firms allegedly operated under the names of Kamal Singh and Pawan Kumar. Based on these bills, payments totaling approximately ₹10 crore were allegedly released without corresponding work being completed.
Previous Developments
The case was initially investigated by the Delhi Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB), which had registered an FIR and arrested Vinay Bansal in 2018. He remained in custody for approximately one month. Subsequently, following administrative decisions involving the Lieutenant Governor and the Ministry of Home Affairs, the investigation was transferred to the CBI.
Earlier, concerns were raised regarding delays in prosecution, including the absence of sanction to file a charge sheet. A petition was also filed seeking an independent probe by a central agency.
Scope of the Current FIR
The newly registered FIR expands the scope of investigation, focusing on alleged criminal conspiracy involving contractors and public servants. The complaint also calls for examination of the potential role of former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, including scrutiny of any possible financial links or “money trail” connected to the alleged fraudulent payments.
Rahul Sharma, Founder, Road Anti-Corruption Organization (RACO), the complainant stated “This case is not just about financial irregularities but about accountability in public office. The evidence gathered through RTI clearly indicated large-scale discrepancies in billing and execution of public works. I have consistently requested a fair and independent investigation. The registration of this FIR by the CBI is an important step, but it is crucial that the probe examines the complete money trail and fixes responsibility at all levels, without exception.”
