Date:07/04/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/04/07/stories/2006040705870300.htm

Karnataka - Belgaum

Probe likely into allotment of petroleum outlet

Staff Correspondent

A complaint has been lodged with HPCL

Belgaum: Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) is likely to order a probe into a complaint regarding allotment of a petroleum outlet in Athani in violation of rules, said Anil Mittal, Regional Manager, HPCL, Belgaum.

Talking to The Hindu here on Thursday, he confirmed the receipt of a legal notice from Abdulaziz Mohammedgous Mujahid of Athani two days ago.

This had been conveyed to the higher authorities for taking action, he said.

The vigilance cell would investigate the charges made by the complainant, he said.

If the charges made in the complaint were found to be true, HPCL would cancel the allotment, he added. Earlier, Mr. Mujahid, who was also an applicant for the outlet, told presspersons that HPCL had allotted the retail petroleum outlet to a person based on false information and in violation of rules.

He said a kerosene depot of Indian Oil Corporation existed at the place considered for allotment of the outlet by HPCL.

To Mr. Mujahid's charge that HPCL was not responding to his request for details of allocation, Mr. Mittal said Mr. Mujahid had not contacted him.

He said the results with details of interview held on September 12, 2005 were displayed on the notice board of the local office of HPCL.

However, people can seek information on such matters from the office, he said.