26 May 2023  |   06:17am IST

Cong demands judicial officer inquiry into Smart City works

Cong demands judicial officer inquiry into Smart City works

Team Herald

PANJIM: Alleging that tax-payers money is being robbed openly while executing substandard work of Panjim Smart City, the opposition Congress on Thursday demanded investigation by judicial officer to nab culprits involved.

Reacting to Panjim BJP MLA and Revenue Minister Atanasio `Babush’ Monserrate admitting that ongoing work of Panjim 'Smart City' is sub-standard, Congress leader Elvis Gomes said, “He (Monserrate) is part of the government, hence when the government admits corruption then FIR should be registered against those involved.” 

“While carrying out work of Smart City, people’s money is being robbed openly. This government has no right to continue. Monserrate and others who are involved in this can’t escape from this corruption. They are part of it,” Gomes said, adding that their lies should be expose through a judicial investigation.

Gomes alleged that Board members of the Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Ltd (IPSCDL) are involved in the Rs 1,140 crore corruption. Tax-payers money is robbed in broad day light. What has the government done to investigate it?” he questioned.  

“Smart City board has all powers with regards to the project of Smart City. Chief Secretary, who is chief vigilance officer of State, is chairman. Hence the question arises who will take action on whom. Minister Monserrate is on the Board, his Mayor son is on board, they all are involved in this corruption,” Gomes charged.

GPCC general secretary Vijai Bhike said that FIR should be lodged since Panjim MLA has revealed corruption taking place in the Smart City project.

IDhar UDHAR

Idhar Udhar