Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Goa’s political circles are in turmoil after Minister for Art and Culture, Govind Gaude, leveled explosive corruption allegations against his own Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government, accusing it of bribery and administrative sabotage particularly in tribal welfare initiatives.
Speaking at a public function in Ponda, Gaude remarked: “Files are not cleared unless bribes are paid. Tribal people are not getting justice. There are people who are only interested in commissions.”
His comments, aimed at both bureaucratic hurdles and systemic corruption, sent shockwaves through the political establishment.
Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant slammed Gaude’s remarks as “irresponsible,” asserting that internal issues should be addressed through Cabinet mechanisms, not public forums.
“Action will be taken,” Sawant warned, suggesting disciplinary steps were imminent.
BJP State President Damu Naik*echoed the criticism, stating, “This is not just a warning. The BJP is a disciplined organization. Such statements tarnish the government’s image and will not be tolerated.”
Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Tanavade added that Gaude should have approached the Chief Minister privately rather than airing grievances in public, calling the move “highly irresponsible.”
The opposition seized on the controversy. AICC in-charge Manikrao Thakare called it proof of internal rot in the BJP government, claiming ministers were more focused on “commissions than citizens.”
AAP Goa President Amit Palekar backed Gaude’s claims and pointed to earlier allegations by BJP’s own Pandurang Madkaikar as signs of entrenched corruption.
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao demanded an investigation by the Anti-Corruption Branch, saying, “Gaude has exposed the truth. This government is rotten from the inside. Those guilty must be brought to justice.”
Meanwhile, GPCC Vice President Sunil Kawthankar and AAP MLA Cruz Silva called for public clarifications and an independent probe into the state of tribal welfare schemes, particularly ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.
Amid the row, South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes came out in support of Gaude, asserting that the Minister was being punished for “speaking the truth about systemic corruption” and stood by the people.
Adding to the pressure on Gaude, Goa Assembly Speaker Ramesh Tawadkar criticized him for not using available government channels, questioning his own performance in the Tribal Welfare Department.
As the BJP grapples with internal dissent and mounting opposition attacks, the focus now shifts to whether the party will act against Gaude—or if his remarks will open the floodgates to further revelations from within the ruling establishment
