Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Goa’s political establishment has been shaken by sensational revelations from within the ruling BJP government. Cabinet Minister Govind Gaude has publicly alleged corruption in his own government, claiming that contractors are being coerced into paying bribes for file clearances in the Tribal Welfare Department, a portfolio currently held by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant.
The remarks, made during a public address over the weekend, have drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders, who are now demanding the Chief Minister’s resignation. The allegations have lent credibility to long-standing accusations of widespread corruption under BJP rule in the state.
‘Cash-for-Files’ Scandal
Minister Gaude’s comments hinted at a “cash-for-files” mechanism, where bureaucratic procedures are allegedly delayed or obstructed until informal payments are made. “Files are not moving unless money is paid,” he reportedly said, pointing to systemic rot within a department meant to uplift the state’s marginalized communities—Scheduled Tribes (ST), Scheduled Castes (SC), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
Gaude expressed deep dissatisfaction with the department’s performance, warning that tribal communities are growing increasingly frustrated with the government’s failure to address their longstanding grievances. He hinted at the possibility of renewed agitation if justice is not delivered.
“The patience of tribal people is running out. They will not hesitate to take to the streets again if their demands continue to be ignored,” Gaude cautioned.
Gaude urged the government to amend existing laws to ensure genuine justice for SC, ST, and OBC communities, who, he said, continue to face systemic neglect despite repeated appeals.
“We’ve always worked within the legal framework and will continue to do so. But it’s time for the government to amend the laws that are being used to deny basic rights to our tribal brothers,” he said.
The Minister also criticized the administration over the inordinate delay in constructing the much-promised Tribal Bhavan, which was envisioned as a community hub for tribal youth and families, especially those from rural areas.
“The project has been pending for years. Once completed, it will offer our tribal brothers a dedicated platform and a sense of belonging. But the administration is showing no urgency,” Gaude stated, demanding that the Chief Minister publicly declare a timeline for the project’s completion.
Reacting to the revelations, Aldona MLA Adv Carlos Ferreira questioned whether Gaude would stand firm on his claims or be forced to retract them under pressure, comparing the situation to that of former minister Pandurang Madkaikar, who previously faced similar political heat.
Congress leader Girish Chodankar called for an immediate investigation and demanded accountability from Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, stating that corruption is now being confirmed by the government’s own ministers. “This only affirms what the people of Goa have been saying for years. The Chief Minister must take moral responsibility and resign,” Chodankar said.
AAP Goa President also weighed in, remarking that “this is the true face of BJP governance—corruption admitted not by the opposition but by their own cabinet.”
