What’s the point in harping about corruption when the same corrupt politicians are elected time and again by the people?
It is well know in Goan circles today that the PWD Minister (and not the local MLA) is allegedly the beneficiary of large cuts (stretching from 10 to 20 percent) which often leads to sub-standard works being carried out. Yet, these factors are overlooked and come elections; it is freebies, the chicken and biryani that rule. In some constituencies, distribution of a fraction of the ill-gotten ‘wealth’ happens on a weekly basis if not daily. This happens under the very eyes and noses of the Election Commission Officials and the people as well. Yet, nobody bothers to complain and nobody bothers to take action. It is pointless to blame only the politicians when Corruption has seeped deep into our system. In the present case, an amount of 4 lakhs was allegedly demanded from the Road Contractor and his Work Orders were stalled till these demands were met. It is only when Parrikar intervened and threatened to expose them all that the work Orders were issued. To the best of my knowledge, without any bribes being paid. For the records, the hot mixing of the Internal roads is being done for the first time in this area. The roads were in a pathetic condition till then. One can hope that these newly hot-mixed roads will last for at least 5 years. Cheers, Sandeep
