GFP, AAP slam Goa collector's circular seeking funds for event on Jan 26

A circular issued by the South Goa district collector asking for a contribution of Rs 1,000 each from the staff for an event to be held on January 26 has been criticised by the opposition Goa Forward Party and the Aam Aadmi Party.

While Collector Jyoti Kumari has said it is not a Republic Day programme, GFP chief Vijai Sardesai hit out at the Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and his cabinet, claiming they have drained the treasury and now government functions have to be funded by "contributions".

The circular dated January 19 said "an event is being organised by the Collectorate of South Goa on January 26, 2023 at Matanhy Saldanha Administrative Complex ground followed by Republic Day Function."

"All the permanent staff and officers who are willing shall contribute Rs 1,000 each for making this event a grand success," it said.

The collector also mentioned names of two officials who were directed to collect the amount from all the willing staff and officers including subordinate offices