Supreme Court Issues Show Cause Order Against Public Procurement Act Amendment
Summary
The Supreme Court has issued a show cause order against amendments to the Public Procurement Act that bar tender notices and government information from being published in newspapers. The five-member constitutional bench refused to issue an interim order, leaving the amended provisions in effect for now.
Key Points
- The Supreme Court ordered the government to explain the amendment to the Public Procurement Act, 2063, which restricts publication of tenders and government information in newspapers.
- A five-member constitutional bench led by Chief Justice Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma refused to issue an interim order immediately.
- Petitioners argue the amendment violates the constitutional right to communication and publication and harms the free press and media economy.
- The final hearing will proceed after the government submits its written response.
