Rule 202 of The General Financial Rules 2017 Late Bids
Original Rule Text
Visual Summary
Bids received after the specified time are not considered.
Ensures all bidders adhere to the same submission window.
Avoids unfair advantages and maintains procurement transparency.
Executive Summary
Rule 202 of The General Financial Rules, 2017, explicitly states that bids received after the specified date and time for submission will not be considered. This rule is fundamental to maintaining fairness, transparency, and integrity in the government procurement process by ensuring all bidders adhere to a strict and equal deadline, thereby preventing any potential for manipulation or unfair advantage.
In-Depth Analysis of the Rule
Rule 202 addresses a critical aspect of public procurement: the handling of bids submitted past the designated deadline. Its concise directive underscores the government’s commitment to a disciplined and equitable bidding environment.
Breakdown of the Rule
- Late Bids Defined: The rule refers to “bids received after the specified date and time of receipt,” clearly establishing what constitutes a late submission.
- Non-Consideration: The core directive is that such late bids “should not be considered.” This is a definitive instruction, leaving no room for discretion or exceptions based on the timing of submission.
- Implication for Process Integrity: This strict adherence to deadlines is vital for upholding the integrity of the tendering process, ensuring that all participants operate under the same conditions and preventing any perception of favoritism or unfair advantage.
Practical Example
Imagine a Ministry inviting tenders for IT equipment, with a submission deadline of 3:00 PM on October 26, 2024. A vendor submits their bid at 3:05 PM on the same day. According to Rule 202 of The General Financial Rules, 2017, this bid, being five minutes late, must be rejected and not considered for evaluation, regardless of its content or potential competitiveness. This strict application ensures that all other vendors who submitted on time are treated fairly.
Related Provisions
Understanding Rule 202 is enhanced by examining other provisions that govern the procurement process and ensure fair play:
- Rule 144 of The General Financial Rules 2017 Fundamental Principles of Public Buying: This rule outlines the core principles of public procurement, emphasizing efficiency, economy, transparency, and fair treatment of suppliers, which directly supports the strictness of Rule 202 regarding bid submission deadlines. Read more about Rule 144
- Rule 173 of The General Financial Rules 2017 Transparency Competition Fairness and Elimination of Arbitrariness in the Procurement Process: This rule details measures to ensure transparency and fairness, including clear bidding documents and deadlines, reinforcing why late bids cannot be accepted. Read more about Rule 173
- Rule 174 of The General Financial Rules 2017 Efficiency Economy and Accountability in Public Procurement System: This rule stresses the importance of efficiency and accountability, which includes adhering to timelines and discouraging extensions, aligning with the non-consideration of late bids. Read more about Rule 174
Learning Aids
Mnemonics
- Late Arrivals Totally Excluded: A simple reminder that late bids are not accepted.
Process Flowchart: Handling of Bids
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. According to Rule 202 of The General Financial Rules, 2017, what is the policy regarding bids received after the specified deadline?
- A) They are accepted with a penalty.
- B) They are considered only if the delay is minor.
- C) They should not be considered.
- D) They are forwarded to a special committee for review.
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C) They should not be considered.
2. The primary purpose of Rule 202 of The General Financial Rules, 2017, is to ensure which of the following in the procurement process?
- A) Flexibility for bidders.
- B) Maximum participation.
- C) Fairness and transparency.
- D) Expedited evaluation.
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C) Fairness and transparency.
3. If a bid is submitted one minute after the official closing time for tenders, how should it be treated according to Rule 202 of The General Financial Rules, 2017?
- A) It should be accepted if the content is strong.
- B) It should be rejected without consideration.
- C) It should be marked as ‘late’ but still evaluated.
- D) The procuring entity has discretion to accept or reject.
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B) It should be rejected without consideration.
4. Which of the following is NOT a direct implication of strictly following Rule 202 of The General Financial Rules, 2017?
- A) Preventing unfair advantages.
- B) Maintaining process integrity.
- C) Encouraging last-minute submissions.
- D) Ensuring equal treatment for all bidders.
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C) Encouraging last-minute submissions.
5. Rule 202 of The General Financial Rules, 2017, applies to bids received after what specific point?
- A) The start of the evaluation period.
- B) The specified date and time of receipt.
- C) The opening of other bids.
- D) The final decision on the tender.
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B) The specified date and time of receipt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does Rule 202 of The General Financial Rules, 2017, allow for any exceptions for late bids under special circumstances?
No, Rule 202 is absolute in its directive: “Late bids i.e. bids received after the specified date and time of receipt should not be considered.” It does not provide for exceptions based on circumstances.
Why is it important for government procurement to have a strict rule like Rule 202 of The General Financial Rules, 2017, regarding late bids?
This rule is crucial for maintaining fairness, transparency, and integrity in the public procurement process. It ensures that all bidders are treated equally and prevents any potential for manipulation or favoritism that could arise from accepting late submissions.
What happens if a bid is submitted electronically but is delayed due to technical issues on the bidder’s side, causing it to be late as per Rule 202 of The General Financial Rules, 2017?
Regardless of the reason for the delay, including technical issues on the bidder’s end, a bid received after the specified date and time will not be considered as per Rule 202. Bidders are responsible for ensuring timely submission.
Key Takeaways
- Rule 202 mandates the non-consideration of any bid received after the official deadline.
- This strict policy upholds the principles of fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity in government procurement.
- No exceptions are permitted for late submissions, irrespective of the reason for the delay.
- Adherence to this rule is fundamental for maintaining the integrity and credibility of the bidding process.
Conclusion
Rule 202 of The General Financial Rules, 2017, serves as a cornerstone for ethical and efficient public procurement. By unequivocally rejecting late bids, it reinforces the importance of strict adherence to deadlines, thereby safeguarding the competitive environment and public trust in government contracting. This seemingly simple rule has profound implications for the fairness and accountability of the entire tendering ecosystem.