Goa Minister Cleared in Decades-Old Power Rebate Scandal

Goa's Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho has been acquitted in a 1998 power rebate case after a 27-year legal battle. He faced charges related to granting a 25% rebate on electricity bills without proper state cabinet consultation, which allegedly caused a Rs 4.52 crore loss to the state exchequer.

In a dramatic conclusion to a legal saga spanning nearly three decades, Goa's State Transport and Panchayati Raj Minister Mauvin Godinho has been acquitted by a special court in a 1998 power rebate case. Special Judge Irshad Agha delivered the verdict, dismissing all charges against Godinho, a pivotal figure in the then Congress administration led by Pratapsingh Rane.

The charges stemmed from allegations that Godinho, while serving as power minister, unlawfully granted a 25 percent rebate on electricity bills to industrial units, a move accused to have caused a financial loss of Rs 4.52 crore to the state exchequer. The case marked a significant political clash, initiated by the late BJP leader Manohar Parrikar in an era marked by intense legislative conflicts.

Outside the courtroom, an elated Godinho described the legal ordeal as an instance of 'political persecution.' The decision invites reflection on a journey through India's legal system, underscored by accusations, arrests, and appeals that touched the highest judicial avenues before concluding.

(With inputs from agencies.)