MAPUSA
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Monday said the government is willing to release pending funds to Street Providence, a charitable organisation providing free shelter to the homeless and persons with disabilities, provided the organisation follows due procedures and submits the required utilisation certificates.
“We are ready to pay all the money that is required, and ₹50 lakh was paid just a month ago. But they must follow the process and submit the utilisation certificate,” Sawant said, responding to the concern raised by Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao at the Zero Hour.
Sawant appeared to take a dig at the organisation, stating, “Some people have the urge to blackmail. We have paid in the past and continue to support NGOs that comply with regulations. We have also asked them to submit additional documents, which are still pending.”
The CM reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting welfare-oriented organisations but insisted on compliance with norms.
“We also run the Provedoria and are aware how the system works,” he added.
Alemao had flagged concerns about the status of government support to Street Providence, warning that the organisation’s decision to shut down its shelter homes would severely impact the vulnerable communities it serves.
Street Providence had on Monday published a public notice in local newspapers announcing the suspension of its free shelter service until March 31, 2026.
The organisation also requested Goa Police to intervene and take over responsibility for the residents staying at its various shelter homes.
