------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Documented by Goa Desc Resource Centre Ph:2252660 Website: www.goadesc.org Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Press Clippings on the web: http://www.goadesc.org/mem/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------- PMCA rubbishes CM's claims on IFFI files ------------------------------------------------------- The People's Movement for Civic Action (PMCA)has expressed shock at the press statement made by the Chief Minister, Manohar Parrikar, who is also GSIDC chairman, that despite announcement that IFFI related files would be kept open at the GSIDC office between April 25 to 27 for perusal, no one had shown any interest in seeking information. The files have now been ordered to be closed and information would only be given after following procedures, adds the release.
The PMCA said, it would like to refresh the memory of the chief minister on the issue, that the press reports which appeared on April 9 stated that files would be kept open for inspection after the April 25 in view of shifting of the GSIDC office. The press note also stated that the Board had decided to publish advertisements in local newspapers to inform about exact date and timing for seeking information. However, PMCA claimed nothing of this sort was done and yet the chief minister has unilaterally decided to close the files even before they were opened, while casting political aspersions on NGOs and citizens.
The release pointed out that April 25 (Sunday) and 26 (Election Day) were both holidays. The PMCA was advised by the chief minister, to approach him directly for information on the IFFI related Projects. The CM was approached on March 30, 2004 by a delegation comprising the PMCA and The Goa Action Group with a written request for information. While refusing to answer the list of questions raised by the public, the CM assured the delegation that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and Technical Documentation would be made available within 15 days.
No intimation has been received as on date, while the IFFI website launched on April 1, was like a "April Fool" joke played on the people with no significant information available on it.
The CM's statement made to the press on May 1 further stated that henceforth whosoever wants information on the IFFI projects will have to make a written application and follow the procedures.
The PMCA states that it is at loss to understand this statement, as both the procedures ie through the Goa Right to Information Act and a letter of request directly to the CM and Chairman of the GSIDC have not yielded any results.
The bottom line it appears is that there is no 'will' on the part of the GSIDC or the government to part with the information on the IFFI infrastructure projects, while attempts are being made to confuse people with misinformation. ----------------------------------- HERALD 4/5/04 page 4 -----------------------------------
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