Says nothing is finalised, govt will decide in interest of people; Opposition slams minister for ‘inconsistencies’ in proposal
MAPUSA
Health Minister Vishwajit Rane, who faced the heat of the Opposition members during Question Hour on Thursday over utilising part of the South Goa District Hospital for a private medical college, acknowledged that the proposal for a private medical college was under consideration but emphasised that nothing had been finalised.
He mentioned that the NITI Aayog had developed certain models, but no decisions had been made.
Rane also noted that while the Chief Minister may have previously made a statement, the plans were still in the discussion phase.
“The opposition can ask questions but finally the government will take a decision in the interest of the people,” Rane asserted.
Rane also emphasised that he has not violated the CVC guidelines.
Facing continued pressure, the health minister agreed to present the entire file on the private medical college proposal to the House.
A fiery Opposition confronted Rane on the floor of the House, criticising the lack of transparency regarding the proposed establishment of a private medical college at the South Goa District Hospital in Margao.
The Opposition's dissatisfaction led to a dramatic scene as members rushed to the well of the House, demanding clear answers from the government.
Leader of the Opposition, Yuri Alemao, initiated the debate during a postponed joint question session, declaring that a private medical college would not be permitted in the district hospital.
Alemao highlighted the inadequate facilities and alleged sugar blood testing services at the South Goa District Hospital, claiming a lack of coordination within the government adversely affected the local population.
“Why do we require a private medical college in South Goa? It is meant for crony capitalists. We will never allow it. Has the government set up the infrastructure in the district hospital to hand it over to private players?” Alemao lambasted the government.
He demanded a commitment from the health minister that a private hospital would not be established in the district hospital. A vociferous Goa Forward Party leader and Fatorda MLA, Vijai Sardesai, accused the health minister of dishonesty, citing inconsistent answers about the proposal for a private medical college in South Goa.
“The health minister is either telling lies or trying to hide something. He tells me ‘no such proposal is under consideration’ while he tells Yuri that ‘the plan is under process,’” Sardesai stated.
He further alleged that the two contrasting answers was violation of Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) guidelines and the minister could be jailed for the violations.
Sardesai recalled that a year ago, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant had announced plans for a private medical college in South Goa with reserved seats for Goan students during a cabinet briefing.
Sardesai criticised the health minister’s plan to establish the college through a private-public partnership (PPP) model, accusing him of attempting to privatise the Rs 500 crore district hospital.
“He is irresponsible. Why is he giving two different answers? The speaker should warn him,” Sardesai demanded.
