Vibrant Gujarat 2024: MoUs signed, sluggish clearance system

On Aug 29, four MoUs were signed in one day in various sectors, including textiles, industrial parks, and sustainable environmental projects for the packaging industry by the Gujarat government.

Post-pandemic, Gujarat is gearing up to roll out the red carpet for the grand tenth Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in Jan 2024, to be hosted after a five-year gap.

However, a certain set of companies may have a bone to pick with the state government.

Turns out, the commencement of the projects after the MoUs are signed, is not as easy as the firms may have thought.

The bureaucratic red tape, labyrinthine procedures, and the complete absence of a streamlined, single-window clearance system are turning this investment frenzy into a delightful exercise in patience. 

Who would’ve thought that Gujarat’s tantalising promise of investments would turn out to be as swift as a tortoise in a marathon? 

Rave parties, and drugs, common in Ahmedabad?

Ahmedabad is currently witnessing a disturbing surge in drug-related activities. It appears that cocaine-infused parties have become alarmingly commonplace, casting a concerning shadow over the entire city.

In a recent operation, the Ahmedabad crime branch arrested a Ugandan woman, along with two male accomplices, in possession of a staggering 50 kgs of cocaine, valued at ₹4.50 lakh.

Arrested individuals include 25-year-old Kelly James Richel, Shalin Shah, and Aditya Patel, who supplied drugs to active rave parties in Ahmedabad.

Shah and Patel disclosed to the cops that they used to supply drugs at various rave parties in Ahmedabad at a rate of ₹25,000 per gram. The police are investigating their customers.

These developments have raised serious concerns about the rising state of Ahmedabad’s ‘party culture’ and the potential consequences for the city’s future.

Possible comeback of senior home department official? 

High-profile home department official Nikhil Bhatt is rumoured to be returning to the fray after a brief ‘pit stop’.

Having played a pivotal role in issuing orders, including transfers of IPS and police officers, Bhatt served the department for over a decade and secured a one-year contract extension before retirement.

Following his permanent exit from government service, there are indications of his re-entry.

Reports suggest that Bhatt is in contention for the position of RTI commissioner, with potential plans where he might swiftly claim his desired position in the home department as well.

Adani Power scam: How did the government downplay the ₹3,900 crore energy controversy?

In a startling revelation, a high-ranking official within Gujarat’s energy department, who, despite orchestrating a massive ₹3,900 cr scam, managed to secure a position at Adani Power.

This official reportedly syphoned additional funds from the government and redirected them into Adani Power’s coffers during an energy exchange transaction.

Surprisingly, the government’s response to this has been notably tepid, failing to take substantial action against this employee. 

Moreover, the government also claimed to demand a refund from Adani as per the rates decided by the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC).

It is disconcerting to note that the government has yet to initiate a thorough investigation into the suspected collusion between its officials and Adani Power.

This raises a pressing question: why has the government chosen to sweep this matter under the rug?

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