‘Union Territory staff in a fix due to CM-LG war’

Talking to news persons here, Parida said the Lt Governor and Chief Minister had apprised the Central government of this and the centre would take an appropriate decision in due course. 

After a power struggle ensued between the Lt Governor and Chief Minister V Narayanasamy, both are issuing different orders on the same issue. Several officers, including two IAS officers here are under the clutches of the CBI in the medical admission scam after the Lt Governor referred the matter to the CBI. The officials who maintain that they are obeying the orders from the Lt Governor and Chief Minister are now reluctant to work fearing punitive action from some section. 

Stating that the air service from Puducherry to Hyderabad which commenced recently is going on well, the Chief Secretary said that service to Bengaluru would begin soon. 

He said the Central government was apprised to expand the existing airport here instead of setting up a second airport and added that the 100 acres of land required for the expansion had already been identified. The Centre has also been approached for the required funds, he added. 

Parida said dengue is under control in Puducherry. Many people from Tamil Nadu are coming here to get treated, he said, adding that the administration is geared up to meet any calamitous situation. 

He exhorted the public to give utmost cooperation in eradicating dengue. He clarified that though the financial situation of the Union Territory is in crisis, it will be rectified in another three months. Revenue losses were incurred due to demonetisation, closure and shifting of liquor shops, and GST, he said and added that the Central Government will compensate the GST revenue loss which will improve the financial position. 

The Chief Secretary said a decision to provide bonus to the government employees and the quantum would be decided at the cabinet meeting. 

Asked about the Lt Governor’s demand for a separate Chief Vigilance Officer for Puducherry, Parida said the Chief Secretary is the Chief Vigilance Officer in all states in the country. 

“I have been doing my duty as the Chief Vigilance Officer sincerely.” So far, 3,400 complaints were received and investigation has been conducted on 2,200. The Central Vigilance Commission has been directed to inquire into the alleged irregularities in the purchase of house boats during the previous regime and submit a report. The investigation in this regard is on, he added.