Govt pulls brakes on rent-a-car scheme over misuse, violations

MAPUSA
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Tuesday confirmed in the Goa Legislative Assembly that the rent-a-car business has been completely banned across the State, and urged citizens who may have paid money to obtain permits to file police complaints against the agents or intermediaries involved.

Responding to a pointed query from Goa Forward Party chief and Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai, Sawant said, “The rent-a-car activity, which was initiated in 2018, has now been stopped. Initially, it was allowed to operate through a franchisee system, which was incorrect and has since been discontinued.”

Sawant highlighted the misuse of the system, stating that permit holders often failed to maintain proper parking facilities and were renting out private vehicles illegally under the guise of the rent-a-car scheme.

“They operate without parking provisions and provide private cars for hire, which is not permissible. Therefore, we’ve put a complete stop to this activity,” he said.

The chief minister strongly advised those who have paid money – either directly or through agents – to file formal complaints.

“If anyone has paid to obtain a permit, they should immediately approach the police. Action will be taken,” he assured.

Sardesai alleged that despite the official ban, agents continue to collect money from unsuspecting applicants under the pretext of facilitating rent-a-car permits.

“Even after the ban, agents are taking money. When applicants demand a refund, they are told the money has been passed on to a minister’s PA,” Sardesai claimed on the floor of the House, demanding a crackdown on the alleged scam.

Earlier, Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho flatly denied the charges of monies being paid to the PA of a minister made by the Fatorda MLA. “Anyone can make these allegations. We need to see the veracity of the statements. We have stopped the rent-a-car business and that’s final,” Godinho said.

The revelation has reignited concerns over illegal intermediaries operating in various government-related services and permit schemes in Goa. The issue also casts a spotlight on the need for tighter regulatory oversight and public awareness campaigns to prevent exploitation of citizens.