The Goa government’s claim in a pending High Court case that there are no competent officers to replace current ones is a misuse of power. This excuse for extending the service of retiring officials, known for pleasing political bosses, is unacceptable. These officials face corruption allegations and are often incapable of delivering quality public services. Extensions only help political leaders amass wealth through corrupt means.
A similar issue exists in the Water Resource Department, where three retired officials, currently on extensions, are accused of fraud, manipulating tenders, and approving unnecessary projects. These projects, designed to inflate costs, benefit real estate developers at the expense of locals. Despite objections from villagers and experts, barrages are being built to serve vested interests.
Service extensions prevent promotions and block job vacancies for locals, allowing corruption to thrive. The government’s claim of no vacancies is misleading, as these positions are deliberately blocked by extending officials’ tenures. The Enforcement Directorate should investigate these departments for money laundering and corruption.
