PANAJI
The Congress party has asked the BJP-led State government to quickly file an appeal in the High Court against the acquittal of Minister Mauvin Godinho and others in the 1998 power rebate case.
Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) President Amit Patkar, in a letter to Chief Secretary V. Candavelou, said the acquittal showed “serious lapses in the prosecution” as proper evidence was not effectively placed before the Court.
“This is not just about one case. It is about corruption, misuse of public money and betrayal of trust. If the government remains silent, it will set a dangerous precedent,” Patkar said.
He urged the government to appeal before the High Court of Bombay at Goa, review lapses in investigation and prosecution, and set up a special legal team to handle the case properly. He warned that Congress would be “forced to take legal action” if the government fails to act.
Last week, the North Goa Sessions Court acquitted Godinho, who was Power Minister at the time, in the power rebate case. He was accused of giving rebates to industrial units, allegedly causing a loss of Rs 4.52 crore to the State. The case was first raised by then Leader of Opposition, the late Manohar Parrikar. In its ruling, the Court pointed out that key witnesses like Parrikar and former Chief Minister Pratapsing Rane were not examined, which badly weakened the case.
Patkar said a strong legal strategy, backed by proper documents and evidence, was needed to ensure justice, accountability and public trust.
“The BJP government cannot protect corrupt leaders and expect Goans to remain quiet. Congress will continue to fight for transparency, justice and the rule of law,” he added.
