PANAJI
Amid backlash over irresponsible statement against St Francis Xavier, Shiv Sena accused the government of alleged corruption in the tenders and execution of works for the upcoming Exposition of Sacred Relics of St Francis Xavier at Old Goa. The party will call upon the Archbishop House and Raj Bhavan seeking investigation into the expenditures.
Shiv Sena's Goa Unit Chief Jitesh Kamat criticized the exorbitant costs of temporary structures, such as Re 3,105 per square meter for fixing coconut leaves and Rs 10,695 per square meter for bamboo mat windows, claiming these local materials are available at a much lower rate.
He further alleged manipulation of market quotations and measurements to inflate costs, accusing the government of wasting public funds.
Kamat apprehended possible conspiracy to raise false bills post-event once the temporary structures are dismantled. Furthermore, Kamat estimated that 30 percent of the Rs 100 crore allocated for roads and Rs 50 crore for buildings will be siphoned off through corruption.
"A simple hut costs Rs 13 lakh, while the government claims to build permanent houses for Niz Goykars at Rs 15-20 lakh. This is nothing but an open waste of taxpayers' money. If Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has no idea about the corruption happening in his own department, then he should consult me. This blatant manipulation cannot go unchecked," he said.
Kamat also plans to inform the Archbishop and Goa’s Governor, seeking action against the corruption tainting the sacred event. He has invited the public and authorities to join him in verifying the work done.
