BJP leader and former Goa Transport Minister Pandurang Madkaikar recently voiced alarming Goa Minister corruption claims. He accused current Ministers in the ruling BJP government of being “busy in counting money.” Madkaikar even alleged that he paid a bribe to a Minister’s Personal Assistant (PA) to expedite a file processing.
Madkaikar’s Serious Accusations
While addressing the media, Madkaikar asserted, “It’s not corruption; it’s loot. Rampant loot is going on in Goa. All Ministers are busy counting money.” His remarks came after a meeting with BJP national general secretary (organisation) BL Santhosh in Panaji, where Santhosh met with various MLAs and party leaders to evaluate the party’s organizational efforts.
Madkaikar revealed, “Last week, I paid Rs 15 to 20 lakh to one Minister for a small work.” He explained that the Minister took the file home and instructed that inquiries be directed to him. When Madkaikar’s manager met the Minister’s PA, a demand for Rs 15 or 20 lakh was made directly. “I was also a Minister. I know the procedures followed in that department,” he added.
Although Madkaikar refrained from naming the Minister involved, he hinted that he would disclose the name when he leaves the party.
Response from Current Officials
In response to these Goa Minister corruption claims, current Goa Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho urged Madkaikar to file a police complaint and specify the Minister involved. Godinho remarked, “In a democracy, one should be careful not to abuse the freedom one has to speak.” He further suggested that Madkaikar should reflect on his actions during his own tenure before casting judgment.
Call for Investigation
Opposition parties have demanded that the police take action regarding Madkaikar’s statements. AAP Goa chief Amit Palekar insisted that the Goa police should register an FIR based on these claims. Similarly, Vijai Sardesai, president of the Goa Forward Party, expressed concern, stating, “If relevant authorities like police or the anti-corruption bureau do not act, it means the BJP government has normalized corruption in Goa.”
This situation has sparked significant debate about the state of governance in Goa. For further insights on political developments in the region, visit The Hans Bharat.
