Goa CM assures strict action in fake excise job case

Panaji, Goa's Chief Minister Pramod Sawant assured strict punishment for those allegedly involved in duping a person with a fraudulent senior position in the state Excise Department. The chief appealed for vigilance among citizens, expressing regret that educated individuals were falling for such scams. Manoj Talekar was detained on Thursday when he walked into the Excise Department office, carrying an appointment letter promising him the position of Additional Excise Commissioner.

The vacancy arose after the transfer of Asvin Chandru, an IAS officer. The deception was uncovered after the department staff grew suspicious, and upon verification, no such letter had been issued.

Talekar claimed that a man named Ajit Shankhwalkar had taken ₹27 lakh from him to obtain the fraudulent appointment letter. Police are actively seeking Shankwalkar, who is also accused of forging the signature of Goa's Chief Minister, Sawant, on a second letter, alleging that Talekar had been hired. During the investigation, it was discovered that the accused had provided another letter with a forged signature of Sawant, claiming Talekar's employment.

Sawant instructed the police to conduct a thorough investigation into the alleged job fraud, emphasizing that no one would be spared. He stated that the state government would confiscate the properties of those involved in fraudulent activities. The chief also appealed for citizens to remain vigilant and verify suspicious communications with government departments.