Team Herald
PANJIM: Criticizing Union Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar for his deceptive statement on land leased out for the Defexpo, three Independent MLAs – Vijai Sardesai, Rohan Khaunte and Naresh Sawal – have demanded an open debate and discussion on the issue during the winter session of the Legislative Assembly, beginning January 11, 2016.
In a joint statement issued on Thursday, the MLAs have condemned Parrikar’s statement that certain sections are spreading lies and misleading people on Defexpo and transfer of land from Goa Industrial Development Corporation (GIDC) to the Union Ministry. The Union Minister, during his birthday bash on December 13, had announced that the land has not been leased out to the ministry on a permanent basis and that the event would be held only for five days.
“The recent statement issued by Parrikar is deceptive and does not tell the truth. A letter from the defence minister to the Government of Goa states very clearly that allotment of 150 acres of land along the coastline be made so that a permanent venue can be set up to conduct the Defence Expo and Aeroshow. Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar has given an in principle approval to the allocation of land on a permanent basis,” the MLAs said.
“We oppose the chief minister’s action of giving away the land without due diligence and demand an open, honest discussion in the Assembly regarding this matter. The way BJP government has handled the crisis is pitiable,” the statement reads.
The MLAs are of the view that IDC, which currently owns the land, can develop the infrastructure and lease it out to Defence Expo or the Aeroshow when required. It can also be leased out to host various other events throughout the year, thereby generating much needed revenue and employment for the locals.
