State Authority Invites Expressions of Interest for Appointment of Internal Auditor

1. Core Facts & Background

• The department invited expressions of interest from qualified audit firms for internal audit services spanning August 2024 to March 2026.
• Eligible firms are required to hold active empanelment with the Comptroller and Auditor General and possess a minimum five-year operational history.
• The terms prescribe that the applicant firm must maintain its head office within the designated state.
• Prior experience in conducting audits for autonomous bodies or educational institutions was specified as a key qualification.

2. Revenue / Department’s Action

• The department established a two-bid tender framework comprising separate technical and financial bids.
• The department mandated submission of audited turnover statements, tax return acknowledgments, and statutory credentials.
• The department reserved absolute authority to vary, cancel, or reject any proposal without assigning reasons.
• The department stipulated that audit execution must commence promptly upon issuance of the assignment order.

3. Assessee’s Defense & Arguments

• The assessee must demonstrate relevant expertise and deploy a qualified team of professionals.
• The assessee is required to furnish comprehensive firm profiles, partnership deeds, and tax registration documents.
• The assessee must submit an all-inclusive fee proposal without claiming additional expenses or advance payments.
• The assessee is obligated to deliver year-end internal audit reports in adherence to statutory directives.

4. Final Ruling & Outcome

• The department confirmed that selection will proceed based on detailed scrutiny of technical and financial competence.
• Audit fee disbursement will occur exclusively upon satisfactory completion of the assigned audit engagement.
• All procedural disputes regarding the empanelment remain subject to the binding decision of the department.