Bihar Health Department's pathology tender under scrutiny as bidders question Science House's bid

Allegations of serious irregularities have emerged in the Bihar Health Department’s October 23 tender for pathology services. Six out of the seven companies that participated in the tender have raised questions about the financial bid submitted by Science House, the company declared the lowest bidder (L1). Representatives allege that Science House listed different rates for various locations, creating confusion and suspicion among the bidders.

The Bihar Health Committee issued the tender to provide pathology services at all government health centers, with the last submission date on October 3. Seven companies qualified technically under NIT No. 09/SHSB/Pathology Services/2024-25, and on October 23 at 5 PM, Science House was announced as the L1 bidder. However, other participants soon pointed out that Science House’s bid included a 1 percent discount in one section and a 77 percent discount in another. Bidders reported that officials attempted to alter the 1 percent discount sheet to reflect a 77 percent discount. Following this discovery, representatives voiced objections, but health officials then excused all bidders, saying that the Tender Committee would assess the claims.

Another key point of contention is that no signatures were collected from company representatives after the bid was opened. Companies requested the opportunity to file written objections, but officials declined, prompting complaints via email. The health department later stated that a decision would be posted online.

Currently, an agency already provides pathology services at Bihar’s health centers, having received a three-year contract extension last year. However, the State Health Society Bihar issued a new tender this year. Previously, the Bihar Medical Services and Infrastructure Corporation managed the pathology contract, but the responsibility has since shifted to avoid potential legal challenges.

Science House, a company with past controversies, had earlier been involved in a scandal highlighted in the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly and has ongoing legal cases. The company did not disclose these issues in its Bihar bid, adding to bidder concerns.