Team Herald
MARGAO: The Goa Forward Party (GFP) has called on the State government to clarify its stance on the proposal to start a private medical or nursing college at the South Goa District Hospital (SGDH). GFP President Vijai Sardesai highlighted conflicting statements made by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Health Minister Viswajit Rane on this issue, with the CM suggesting a private medical college and the Rane proposing a private nursing college.
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Sardesai expressed concern that, amidst this confusion, the hospital is not operating at its full capacity, forcing patients to seek treatment at other facilities. GFP, which has previously taken legal action over the hospital’s issues, is also opposing any moves toward privatisation.
Vijai alleges
govt-backed
‘chicken racket’
In a separate matter, Sardesai alleged the existence of a government-backed “chicken trade racket” aimed at monopolising the poultry supply in Goa. He claimed that a newly formed association of ruling party cadres plans to control the supply and pricing of chicken under the pretext of preventing the entry of diseased birds from other states.
“The association’s role in the chicken trade is unnecessary and will only result in higher prices for Goans. The responsibility for quarantine and inspections should remain with agencies like the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) and the Directorate of Animal Husbandry, not unqualified intermediaries,” Sardesai said.
