Says Monserrate’s role in RP2011 ‘scam’ will be probed
TEAM HERALD
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
PANJIM: The tug of war in the Corporation of the City of Panaji Mayor’s election again found its echo in the Goa Assembly Friday with Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar Friday stating that he would hand over the controversial Regional Plan 2011 to the Lokayukta, once it starts functioning, in the light of an alleged scam.
Responding to the question raised by Sanquelim MLA Pramod Sawant, the chief minister said that an inquiry would also be initiated against the then Town and Country Planning Minister Atanasio (Babush) Monserrate, if he was found involved in the ‘scam’.
Parrikar and Monserrate are, over the last two days, involved in a public spat over the postponed CCP Mayor’s election since each is backing rival panel.
“…there were allegations of mass (land) conversion. Huge amount of cash was given, of which only some was returned… there is corruption and thus government will refer the scam to Lokayukta,” Parrikar said.
“The documents on the plan are with the government and are under study at present.”
Monserrate, who intervened in the discussion, said that he was open to inquiry.
“I am open for inquiry. At least my name will be cleared,” he declared and asked the chief minister to investigate the RP 2021, alleging a scam.
However, to this Parrikar sought specific documentation to substantiate the allegations.
Elaborating on RP 2011, Parrikar alleged that money was paid through cheques to get lands converted and money exchanged hands to approve conversions under this plan. “…they (former Congress-led government) were so open that memorandum of understanding was signed for conversions. They were so open that they took money through cheques. They were so open that money was taken for conversions,” he said, calling in question the “transparency” of the previous government which had drafted the plan but had to withdraw it within four months.
Parrikar also assured that he would ask the anti-corruption branch to inquire if any isolated incidents of corruption were found.
