Benaulim, November 5, 2024:
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Goa has brought to light what it calls a major job recruitment scam within the BJP-led state government, labeling it the “Nokri for Tokri” scandal. This phrase, coined by MLA Venzy Viegas, highlights the alleged “cash-for-jobs” corruption that has been affecting young Goans seeking government employment. The revelations were made during a press conference at the Benaulim office of MLA Venzy Viegas, where AAP leaders including President Amit Palekar, MLAs Cruz Silva and Venzy Viegas, and General Secretary Francis Coelho collectively voiced their concerns.
Key Allegations in the “Nokri for Tokri” Scandal:
- Loss of a Life Linked to Corruption:
AAP President Amit Palekar expressed his condolences over the recent death of Shridhar Satarkar, a government employee who allegedly paid large sums for his position. Palekar emphasized that this tragic incident underscores the devastating impact of the “Nokri for Tokri” racket on job-seekers.
- High-Level Corruption and Misuse of Power:
Palekar drew attention to the arrest of Pooja Naik, who allegedly amassed luxury assets with no stable income. He argued that her case reflects a larger network of influential insiders using their positions for financial gain.
- Failures in the Recruitment Process:
MLA Cruz Silva criticized the government for sidelining the Goa Staff Selection Commission (SSC), which, he argued, has enabled bribery and unfair hiring practices. Silva called for a return to transparent and merit-based recruitment.
- Call for Transparency on Call Records:
AAP General Secretary Francis Coelho urged the government to disclose the call records of those arrested to reveal the influential figure allegedly leading the scam from Sankhli. Coelho stressed that Goans have a right to know the truth about those exploiting public resources.
- Demand for Fair Recruitment Processes:
Venzy Viegas, who introduced the term “Nokri for Tokri,” noted that many young Goans have lost faith in the current system. He asserted that merit should be the foundation of hiring, not money.
AAP’s Demands for Justice and Accountability:
A judicial inquiry or a CBI probe to ensure an impartial investigation.
A halt to current recruitment processes until transparency is restored.
Accountability for high-ranking officials, including those close to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant.
Public disclosure of call records to allow Goans to see who is behind the scam.
The AAP concluded the conference with a firm commitment to advocating for justice for Goa’s youth and ensuring that government recruitment is based on integrity and merit.
