Goa government assures probe over alleged irregularities in IFFI 2014

PANAJI: Goa Government today said a probe would be conducted into allegations of irregularities in awarding travel contract during International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2014.

State Information and Publicity Minister Milind Naik said on the floor of the House during ongoing legislative Assembly session that a House committee would be formed to investigate the allegations of travel contract being awarded without issuance of any tender during IFFI-2014.

The issue was raised by Independent legislator Vijai Sardesai who alleged large-scale scam in organisation state- run Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), which hosts the festival.

"For IFFI 2013, the travel company was awarded the contract after following proper tendering process. But for 2014 festival, no procedures were followed," he told the House during the question hour.

IFFI 2014 was held between November 20 and 30 in Goa.

Sardesai also alleged that the contractor who was awarded the work for décor for the festival had submitted an inflated bill.

"The décor was awarded at the cost of Rs 4.53 crore but the actual bill of Rs 5.61 crore was submitted by the contractor. There was no prior approval taken while granting the décor," Sardesai said, demanding an inquiry into the matter.

The Information minister said the state will not pay the inflated bill and also assured probe into the allegation.