Bengaluru: The high court has quashed the letter of intent issued by Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) in favour of a consortium of Indian and Chinese companies, holding that national security from the defence perspective assumes greater significance than public interest.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Prasanna B Varale and Justice MGS Kamal pointed out that BHEL ought to have ensured that there is complete compliance with the office order dated July 23, 2020 from the central government before issuing the letter of intent in favour BTL EPC Limited, Kolkata, which is partnered by Fujian Longking Company Limited, China. The bench subsequently directed the PSU to consider the bid submitted by appellant Macawaber Beekay Limited
