Amid recent allegations regarding a job scam in Goa, several prominent ministers and MLAs have voiced their support for Health Minister Vishwajit Rane, calling the accusations baseless and demanding that the opposition provide concrete evidence to substantiate their claims. The opposition, led by GPCC President Amit Patkar, has accused Rane of involvement in irregularities in government job recruitments, but key ministers and MLAs from both the ruling party and outside have dismissed the allegations as unfounded attempts to tarnish reputations.
Former CM Digambar Kamat Defends Rane’s Integrity
Former Chief Minister and senior leader Digambar Kamat spoke out strongly against the opposition’s approach, asserting that he has never encountered any complaints about Rane regarding job-related bribery during their five years together in the cabinet. “The opposition is simply targeting our leaders unnecessarily without any basis,” Kamat said. He suggested that those who have accepted money should come forward and reveal the truth rather than shifting blame. Kamat credited the government for providing jobs on merit without recommendations or bribes, noting that even candidates from opposition constituencies have been hired purely based on merit.
Calangute MLA Michael Lobo Backs Government’s Transparent Hiring
Calangute MLA Michael Lobo reinforced Kamat’s stance, commending the government, the Chief Minister, and Rane for filling vacancies on merit alone. “Many candidates from my constituency and even from opposition constituencies have received government jobs without any recommendations,” Lobo said, emphasizing the transparency in recruitment. He called on the police to take strong action against those involved in fraudulent job schemes and who are falsely accusing others.
Vasco MLA Daji Salkar Calls Patkar’s Claims Baseless
Vasco MLA Daji Krishna Salkar criticized Patkar’s allegations, saying that by targeting Minister Rane without proof, Patkar has made himself a “laughing stock.” Salkar questioned the authenticity of the audio recording presented as evidence, suggesting it could easily be fabricated. He stressed that individuals genuinely involved in offering fake government jobs should be punished, and urged that focus remain on the real issue rather than on baseless defamation.
Power Minister Sudin Dhavalikar Dismisses Accusations as Nonsense
Power Minister Sudin Dhavalikar rejected the allegations against Rane, noting that no one would believe that either Vishwajit Rane or his father Pratapsingh Rane would demand bribes for jobs. He commended Vishwajit’s dedication to public service, saying that he has consistently helped people across the state and adheres to the values instilled by Pratapsingh Rane. Dhavalikar accused Congress of spreading “rubbish” out of frustration with Rane’s popularity and commitment to serving the people.
Bicholim MLA Dr. Chandrakant Shetye Challenges Opposition’s Narrative
Bicholim MLA Dr. Chandrakant Shetye also dismissed the opposition’s claims, arguing that the allegations were attempts to mislead the public. “Let them provide genuine proof to support their allegations,” Shetye said. As an MLA for three years, he stated that he had never encountered any instances of individuals having to pay for government jobs, further questioning the validity of Patkar’s accusations.
Independent MLA Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco Demands Proof from Patkar
Independent MLA Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco echoed similar sentiments, urging Patkar to either produce solid evidence or stop making baseless allegations. “Whenever we made statements in the opposition, we had proof in our hands,” Lourenco said, challenging Patkar to substantiate his claims. Lourenco added that Patkar should not take undue credit for the South Goa MP victory, emphasizing that it was a people’s victory rather than a party-led success.
As various ministers and MLAs come forward to defend Vishwajit Rane, the demand for a thorough and evidence-backed investigation into the job scam allegations grows stronger. The ministers and MLAs unanimously agree that while those involved in any wrongdoing should be held accountable, baseless accusations aimed at defaming individuals will not be tolerated.
