PANJIM: Refuting Minister for Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri’s statement that allegation about Smart City projects in Panjim are unconfirmed, the opposition Congress on Wednesday asked the Minister to show guts and order judicial probe.
Congress leader Elvis Gomes alleged that the magnitude of the corruption involved in ‘Smart City’ project is huge, hence Minister for Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri should investigate it if he dares to expose his party leaders.
Responding to the allegation made by Puri that remarks of Congress on ‘Smart City’ Project are unconfirmed, Gomes said that to prove it, the BJP government should show its guts. During his visit to the State, Puri failed to meet citizens of Panjim and ask how they suffer due to ongoing substandard work of Smart City, Gomes said.
“Judicial investigation in the case could reveal the magnitude of the scam. If BJP leaders are not shareholders of this corruption, then why are they hesitating to order an investigation?” Gomes questioned.
Stating that Revenue Minister Atanasio ‘Babush’ Monserrate has admitted that ongoing work of Panjim ‘Smart City’ is sub-standard, then there is no question of criticising Congress and rejecting its allegations, Gomes said, adding, “Monserrate has rightly said that Rs eight crore are given to consultant without any reason. When the Minister admits corruption, then there is no need to give proof of corruption,” he said.
