PANAJI
Chiding the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) over the 'Ashtami' fair fiasco, Congress leader Elvis Gomes alleged that the forms for the stalls were sold in the black market due to which the law and order situation was created, ultimately leading to lathi-charge of people who had gathered in numbers.
Addressing reporters in Panaji on Wednesday, Gomes said the lathi-charge was a complete contrast of the 75th Independence Day celebrations.
“On August 15, we celebrated 75 years of India's independence and the very next day people get lathi-charged. Even if we celebrate 100 years, there will be no change in people's lives,” he opined.
“Around 480 forms should have been available but only 50 forms were provided. Where did the remaining forms go? The CCP as well as the Urban Development Minister should answer. I have information that the forms were distributed by the councillors with many sold in the black market. Why were the forms distributed through councillors? Why were they not distributed through official machinery?” Gomes posed.
He further said the CCP is not at all capable of handling such simple matters. “If CCP cannot handle such a simple matter of 'Ashtami' fair, then what else could be expected from them?” Gomes questioned.
When pointed out that stone throwing led to the lathi-charge, Gomes countered by saying that the situation of law and order was created by the CCP as they invited the people to collect forms.
“First, they create a law and order situation and then hold the people responsible for showing their anger,” he said and stated that the forms could have have been made available online.
On 'Ashtami' fair being traditionally reserved for furniture vendors, Gomes said the policy of the fair has to be made clear first as to who is eligible and who is not.
“If that was done, then these many people would not have turned up,” he added.
Panaji Mahila block president Adv Lavinia D'Costa, GPCC general secretary Savio D'Souza and Mahesh Mhambrey were also present.
