Gaude meeting deferred to Monday
PANAJI
The much-anticipated Delhi visit of BJP President Damodar Naik has once again diminished expectations of a cabinet reshuffle in the Pramod Sawant-led government.
Naik’s late-night travel to Delhi, where he is expected to stay till Sunday, has, however, postponed his meeting with Minister Govind Gaude following his alleged “corruption” remark against the CM-led Department of Tribal Welfare. The delay has led to growing speculations over the uncertainty of Gaude in the cabinet.
Speaking to 'The Goan', Naik confirmed that he is in Delhi to attend the party's function; however, he informed that he will be holding talks with the high command over political developments in the State. “I will be back on Sunday night and will meet Gaude on Monday,” he said.
“Any decision to be taken will be only after hearing Gaude’s side,” he added.
During the 'Prerna Din' function last Sunday, the Minister alleged that the files of contractors are cleared in exchange for bribes, demanding a clarification from the Department of Tribal Welfare.
Gaude, who landed in the dock following his allegation, made a major U-turn and said that he never blamed the Chief Minister for corruption and that his statement was pertaining to the administrative functioning of the tribal department.
The Minister blamed the media for “distorting” and “misinterpreting” his statement.
