Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao alleged a ₹4,000 crore scam in the collection and recovery of green cess from coal handling companies in Goa. Speaking in the Assembly, Alemao questioned the state government’s failure to recover the massive pending dues from the firms.
Alemao said that despite earning profits and operating freely, these companies have not been made to pay the mandated green cess. “This is a ₹4,000 crore scam in broad daylight,” he said, accusing the government of turning a blind eye.
In response, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said that the matter is currently sub judice in the Supreme Court. However, Alemao countered that there is no stay from the apex court preventing the state from initiating recovery proceedings. “Why has the government not acted when there is no legal barrier?” he asked.
The green cess was meant to compensate for environmental damage caused by coal handling and transportation activities in the state. The allegation has reignited concerns over environmental accountability and financial transparency in Goa’s coal operations.
