During the Budget session’s inaugural day, Ramesh Tawadkar, the Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly and BJP MLA representing Canacona constituency, made serious allegations against Art and Culture Minister Govind Gaude. Tawadkar accused Gaude of involvement in the misappropriation of approximately Rs 26 lakh meant for organizing cultural programs in South Goa’s Canacona constituency.
Tawadkar called for a thorough investigation into the matter, pointing out that the allocated funds were allegedly disbursed to multiple organizations registered at the same address, and no corresponding cultural events were ever conducted. He emphasized the necessity to probe the true intentions behind the minister’s actions.
“I am witnessing, for the first time, a minister within my own government conducting himself in such an irresponsible manner, disregarding protocol, propriety, and discipline,” remarked Ramesh Tawadkar, expressing his disappointment. He stated that he has already brought the issue to the attention of the Chief Minister, stressing that such behavior cannot be tolerated. Tawadkar asserted that he has demanded an inquiry into the matter and expects a report from the Director of Art and Culture. He emphasized that such actions could not have occurred without the minister’s consent.
Earlier on Friday, during a press conference, residents from villages within the Canacona constituency made startling accusations. They claimed that numerous organizations had deceitfully embezzled funds totaling Rs 26.85 lakh from the Art and Culture department. According to the allegations, despite official documentation indicating that several state-sponsored events occurred in Canacona villages, no such cultural programs or events were ever held.
Art and Culture Minister Govind Gaude addressed the allegations by stating that should it be confirmed that funds were disbursed without events taking place, appropriate measures would be taken to recover the amount. He informed the media of an impending investigation into the matter.
Govind Gaude elaborated, stating, “We receive applications for cultural events without discrimination. Each application undergoes scrutiny by the department and is sanctioned accordingly. Following the event, we require a utilization certificate, and if discrepancies arise, the organizers are disqualified. Should events fail to materialize, we will enhance vigilance during the sanctioning process.”
Meanwhile, opposition parties have called for an inquiry into the allegations and demanded Gaude’s resignation, asserting that his position has become untenable. Vijai Sardesai, President of the Goa Forward Party (GFP), emphasized the seriousness of the Speaker’s allegations regarding a potential scam within the Art and Culture Ministry and urged the Goa government to promptly initiate an independent investigation into the matter.
Amit Patkar, President of the Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC), remarked, “Today, Speaker Ramesh Tawadkar has accused the Art and Culture Minister of being embroiled in a scam, citing misuse of ‘Special Grants’. This is not the first time this minister has faced corruption allegations, as similar accusations arose regarding renovation work at Kala Academy. Despite these issues, the BJP has yet to take any action against him, raising concerns of protecting corrupt ministers within the party. It’s noteworthy that this instance marks a rare occasion where a Speaker has exposed corruption within his own party.”
