Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Sep 17: More than two years after a major expose, the Goa government has dismissed Harish Naik, the suspended Upper Division Clerk (UDC) with the Excise Department, for allegedly pocketing fees from licence holders. The dismissal also bars him from future government employment.

Excise Commissioner Ankita Mishra, in her order, said the charges against Naik were “of a grave nature and warrant the severest major penalty.” She added that after reviewing the inquiry report, Naik’s representation, and all available records, dismissal was the appropriate course of action.

The case, described as the biggest scam in the history of the Excise Department, involved Naik allegedly pocketing licence fees and sharing money with some superiors. Fake licences and receipts were issued, leaving licence holders unaware until non-payment notices were sent by Excise Headquarters.

The scandal came to light on June 22, 2023, following an investigation by The Goan, leading to Naik’s suspension along with two inspectors, Vibhuti Shetye and Durgesh Naik. The then Excise Commissioner, Narayan Gad, confirmed the scam, and Rs 27.78 lakh plus interest was recovered from Naik within three days.

Records show that of the 76 licences renewed while Naik was posted in Pernem, 36 were signed by Durgesh Naik, 20 by Vibhuti Shetye, and the rest by other inspectors. Show cause notices were also issued to four inspectors for renewing licences without proper verification.

Following the investigation, the Vigilance Department revoked the suspensions of inspectors Durgesh Naik and Vibhuti Shetye due to insufficient evidence, and the Suspension Review Committee approved their reinstatement.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant had earlier promised strict action against those involved, and Naik’s dismissal marks a significant step in addressing the scam.