PANJIM: Sanguem MLA Prasad Gaonkar has served an ultimatum to the government over re-starting of Sanjeevani Sugar Factory at Usgao by December 5 failing which the farmers will be forced to start an agitation.
Stating the factory’s condition had deteriorated due to corruption, Gaonkar said there was a lakh 75 kg of sugar lying in the factory go downs which is not auctioned.
Addressing a press conference in the city, Gaonkar said that it was the lethargic approach of the government which has brought the condition of the factory to this level.
“About 1.5 lakh sacks of 50 kg each is lying in the go down and I don’t know why it is not sold in the market. Does this not smack of corruption,” said Gaonkar.
He said the government needs to invest more in factory and hand over the charge to farmers.
“The livelihood of 12000 people is at risk including farmers, workers and their family members. The government has to immediately think of restarting the factory by Dec 5, otherwise we will be forced to come on roads,” Gaonkar said.
The MLA said that they have met Agriculture Minister Vijai Sardesai, who has assured to sanction Rs 10 cr for the smooth operation of the factory. “I am told Rs 4 cr has already been transferred but there is no confirmation yet,” he said. The MLA was also critical of the WRD Ministry saying it has failed to provide enough water for the Sugarcane farmers which is why they are not able to give enough yield,” he said.
