Team Herald
PANJIM: In sync with the Leader of Opposition Digambar Kamat, former minister and Independent Porvorim MLA Rohan Khaunte has demanded that Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant should lead an all-party delegation to Delhi to put an immediate stop to the “conspiracy” played against Goa’s interest on Mhadei water diversion issue.
Addressing media persons on Friday, Khaunte supported the demand for one-day assembly session to discuss the Mhadei Water matter along with issue of pothole-ridden roads.
“The Consent granted to Kalsa-Banduri project is a gift for Karnataka from the Centre. It is a major slap to the Goa government. The chief minister’s ignorance about the fact shows that he has no right connect in Delhi and he has lost his control,” Khaunte alleged.
He advised the chief minister to take some tips from Health Minister Vishwajit Rane, who is often seen meeting BJP Central leadership in Delhi.
“Goa government in consultation with Opposition will have to take a strong stand on Mhadei issue before the Centre. The chief minister will have to lead an all-party delegation to mount pressure on Centre to protect State’s interest on Mhadei, which serves as lifeline for entire North Goa,” Khaunte said.
The Porvorim MLA said that if the chief minister is not able to convince the Centre to withdraw the consent, then, he should tender his resignation on moral grounds.
Speaking about the pothole-ridden roads, which have become a death trap, Khaunte said that the PWD is not in a position to carry out works as it is not getting financial approvals due to non-availability of funds. “Assembly session needs to discuss on this crucial issue which is affecting day-to-day commuters,” he said.
The MLA also hit at the Health Department for their failure to handle rising dengue cases across the State.
