Margao: Defector Margao MLA Digambar Kamat had no hesitation in raising issues concerning hikes in MLAs’ salaries, vehicle loans and staff strength in the Goa Legislative Assembly on 19 July 2023. The real question today is whether he will display the same enthusiasm and urgency in demanding relief for ordinary Goans who are struggling under the burden of rising fuel prices, stated Madganvcho Awaaz & Youth Leader Prabhav Naik.
Prabhav Naik challenged Digambar Kamat to publicly demand a reduction in fuel prices and take up the issue with the government with the same conviction shown while advocating benefits for legislators. “If there is genuine concern for the people of Goa, it must be reflected in action and not merely in words,” he said.
He further stated that petrol and diesel prices directly impact every household, farmer, fisherman, taxi operator, small business and daily commuter. Every increase in fuel prices triggers a chain reaction, leading to higher transportation costs and increased prices of essential commodities, making life more difficult for common citizens.
Naik said that while ordinary Goans are being asked to bear the burden of rising fuel prices and inflation, the government continues to spend lavishly on events, advertisements and publicity campaigns. Despite repeated calls by the Prime Minister for austerity and reduction of unnecessary expenditure, Margao MLA & PWD minister Digambar Kamat is reportedly on a foreign tour. Such priorities expose the disconnect between the ruling establishment and the daily struggles of common citizens who are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet.
Naik said that the BJP’s double-engine government has repeatedly burdened citizens through fuel price hikes while claiming to work for the welfare of the people. At a time when inflation continues to affect household budgets, the government must focus on providing relief rather than adding to the financial strain faced by ordinary citizens. He urged Digambar Kamat to stop maintaining silence on issues affecting the common man and instead use his influence within the government to secure immediate relief for the people of Goa.
