The Opposition on Monday initiated an adjournment motion to address allegations raised by Speaker Ramesh Tawadkar against Art and Culture Minister Govind Gaude. The Speaker, who is also the MLA of Canacona, had accused Gaude of involvement in the misappropriation of funds intended for cultural programs.
The controversy surfaced when panchayat members from Canacona, specifically from the villages of Shristhal, Cotigao, and Gaondongrem, alleged that various organizations fraudulently obtained Rs 26.85 lakh from the Directorate of Art and Culture for cultural programs that never took place. Tawadkar, expressing his disappointment, highlighted that the Minister was not following protocol, and he demanded a thorough inquiry into the matter.
Tawadkar revealed that the panchayat members submitted their representations to him and Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, urging a detailed investigation into the alleged siphoning of government funds. The Speaker emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “It is regrettable that a Minister from our own government is behaving irresponsibly.”
According to Tawadkar, the programs in question were purportedly organized during the monsoon, but he, being from the same village, was neither invited nor aware of them. He called for a comprehensive report from the Director of Art and Culture and insisted on a detailed investigation into the fund diversion, expressing concern about funds being released to organizations with office-bearers from the same house.
On Monday, on the second day of the Goa Legislative Assembly session, the Opposition moved an adjournment motion to discuss the allegations, but the Speaker faced resistance. Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao insisted that the serious allegations raised by the Speaker should be addressed on the floor of the House, stating that this is an insult to the Speaker when the issue raised by him is not being discussed on the floor of the House.
However, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant dismissed the discussion within the House, stating that it was not the appropriate forum. The Opposition’s demand for a debate on the allegations was denied, and the ruling benches continued with the scheduled proceedings.
Before the Assembly session, Art & Culture Minister Govind Gaude defended himself, stating, “Why should I resign, is there any reason? I have already given my clarification on Day 1. I am transparent and clean. I’m ready for an inquiry. It’s a game, I’m ready for batting. Let me warm up for my batting now.”
