Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant rejected claims made by Pooja Naik, the prime accused in the high-profile jobs-for-cash scam, calling them a “big lie.” He urged individuals who were allegedly defrauded by Naik to lodge fresh complaints at their local police stations to ensure proper investigation.
Naik recently appeared in a public video alleging that she had paid large sums in cash to a state minister, a senior IAS officer, and a PWD engineer, claiming their involvement in the scam. Sawant, however, firmly dismissed these assertions and cautioned victims not to be misled.
On Sunday, a group of victims of the scam met Sawant at Ravindra Bhavan, Sanquelim, recounting how they had paid substantial amounts to Naik in exchange for promised government jobs that never materialized. Many of them explained that they had trusted Naik’s assurances and handed over their hard-earned money, only to be left without employment or reimbursement.
After hearing their accounts, Sawant advised the victims to gather all available evidence and file formal complaints at their respective police stations. He noted that because most payments were made in cash, there is limited documentary proof, making police complaints essential for the case to move forward.
“Whatever she (Naik) is saying now is a big lie,” Sawant told reporters. “Since the money was paid in cash, there is no evidence. Therefore, everyone needs to file fresh complaints in their local police stations. The case will have to be proven through proper investigation.”
The Chief Minister also confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and added that additional complaints from victims will strengthen the case against Naik and any others involved.
Victims expressed frustration over the ordeal, stating, “We trusted her promises and gave her money, hoping for jobs. But she betrayed that trust and we have not received a single rupee back. With no other option, we approached the Chief Minister, who has assured us justice.”
