Panaji: Revolutionary Goans leader Manoj Parab has strongly criticized the BJP government’s “double engine” narrative, accusing it of deceiving the public with false promises of development while actually undermining local livelihoods. Speaking at a recent press conference, Parab alleged that the BJP, under the guise of development and slogans like “Developed India” and “Self-reliant Goa,” has handed over small businesses to corporate interests, pushing the local populace towards ruin.
Parab’s comments came in response to Konkan Railway’s recent decision to initiate a Rent-a-Bike and car service. The tender process for this new service has already begun, but Parab vehemently opposed the move, arguing that it threatens the livelihoods of Goans who depend on the rent-a-bike and car service for their daily bread. According to Parab, the state’s irresponsible and careless policies have already handed over the taxi business to large corporate entities like Uber and Ola, causing severe hardship for local taxi operators who have served tourists for years.
Highlighting the adverse impact of the government’s actions, Parab warned that the new initiative by Konkan Railway would lead to further deprivation for those in the rent-a-bike and car service sector. He claimed that whenever a “double engine” government is in power, it systematically undermines local businesses to benefit corporate giants, leaving ordinary Goans struggling.
Supporting Parab’s stance, RG party spokesperson Rohan Kalangutkar, who has been involved in the taxi and car rental business for nearly 20 years, also condemned Konkan Railway’s decision. Kalangutkar urged the state government to address this injustice seriously and to support local Goans instead of corporate entities. He expressed concerns that if the government continues to favor corporate interests, the remaining small businesses will also be taken over, leading to the complete eradication of local enterprises.
Kalangutkar called on the state government to protect the livelihoods of Goans, ensuring the security and sustainability of their businesses amidst growing corporate encroachment.
