have to be tested by the application of the principles of reasonableness, arbitrariness and mala fides. While exercising the power of judicial review, in respect of contracts entered into on behalf of the State, the court is concerned primarily as to whether there has been any infirmity in the decision making process. The court can certainly examine whether 'decision making process' was reasonable, rational, not arbitrary and violative of Article 14 of the Constitution. Judicial review of administrative action is intended to prevent arbitrariness, irrationality, unreasonableness, bias and malafides. Its purpose is to check whether the choice or decision is made 'lawfully' and not to check whether the choice or decision is 'sound'. If the decision relating to award of contract is bona fide and is in public interest, courts will not, in exercise of power of judicial review, interfere even if a procedural aberration or error in assessment or prejudice to a tenderer, is made out. A court, before interfering in tender or contractual matters in exercise of power of judicial review, would examine whether the process adopted or decision made by the authority is mala fide or intended to favour someone or whether it is so arbitrary and irrational that no responsible authority acting reasonably and in accordance with the
