As a reminder on the importance of putting up a fight against corruption, particularly at a time when Goa is reeling under scams involving some government employees and bureaucrats; the State will observe Vigilance Awareness Week which is a part of pan-India’s annual campaign.
The week, commencing on October 31 will be followed by a workshop for Vigilance Officers of all the departments and the Mamlatdars/Block Development Officers on November 1.
The first workshop attains importance considering that the Revenue department was left red-faced when former Bardez Mamlatdar Rahul Desai’s involvement in cases of land fraud emerged. While several complaints are lodged with the Special Investigation Team (SIT) (Land Grab), he faces three First Information Reports (FIRs). The gazetted officer was arrested and suspended after a second FIR against him. The Archives department also came under scrutiny as a few employees were arrested for the criminal offense.
The Vigilance awareness campaign also gains importance as the Pramod Sawant-led government is facing a backlash over the rotting of tons of tur dal, and sugar meltdown, besides the alleged scam into Kala Academy’s renovation. Various related departments have been linked to it. Inquiries and the formation of committees have to a certain extent managed to subside controversies around these issues.
The workshop by the Directorate of Vigilance will also be held for Secretaries of Village Panchayats and Engineers of Municipalities to ensure their list of duties. Sources said that illegalities and irregularities committed by some of these officers have come to the fore, and the workshop will be an opportunity to also warn them of stringent action.
