Team Herald
MARGAO: The Aam Aadmi Party on Saturday accused the government of looting the common man of Goa by allowing an exorbitant charge for a COVID test while at the same time allowing evasion of nearly Rs 50 crore by GMR, the company building the Mopa Airport. Speaking through a video message, AAP Convenor Elvis Gomes said that the allegations made by Porvorim MLA Rohan Khaunte cannot be brushed aside and is a fit case for immediate action by Vigilance Department.
“Rohan is a former minister and an MLA. We believe he has done his study before speaking. Secretary Town and Country Planning Department, Chief Town Planner must answer why this special treatment. How can GMR be allowed to do the construction of airport without paying the licence fees? Does any common man get his licence cleared from any PDA or TCP without paying the licence fees?” questioned Gomes adding that on one side the government was forgoing lawful revenue on the other ripping the common man.
He said that those who wish to get back to their jobs abroad have to undergo a COVID test and taking advantage of their need, seafarers and NRIs are fleeced.
Gomes said that more private laboratories should be allowed to do COVID test by capping the test fees. “Seafarers and NRIs had to face apathy when they had arrived during lockdown. Now when they have to leave to join back, they are fleeced again,” said Gomes.
