Goa Forward Party Chief Vijai Sardesai launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led government during his reply to the Governor’s Address in the Assembly. He accused the government of resorting to theatrics instead of offering transparent and factual statistics, leaving Goans in the dark about the actual state of affairs.
Sardesai criticized the government’s budgetary claims, stating that the supposed revenue surplus was achieved by burdening Goans with exorbitant fees. Citing the example of sound permissions, he highlighted the recent fee hike from ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 depending on the timeline of application, calling it a form of extortion.
Lack of Transparency in Infrastructure Spending
The GFP leader further alleged that the government awarded 76 projects worth ₹304.24 crore without tenders, in violation of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) guidelines. According to him, the actual cabinet note showed only ₹208.91 crore, indicating significant discrepancies.
“Everything is put up for sale,” Sardesai remarked, sarcastically referencing the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium, insinuating rampant corruption. He also questioned the motives behind large-scale infrastructure projects like the proposed metro, hinting that they were designed to cater to non-Goans.
Zuari Land Scam Allegations
Sardesai accused the government of facilitating a massive ₹50,000 crore scam by allowing the sale and conversion of Zuari land to developers such as Prestige and Abhinandan Lodha, despite the Chief Minister’s assurance to prevent real estate development in the area. He demanded an independent investigation into the matter.
Neglect of Goan Identity and Public Grievances
The opposition leader took a dig at the government for celebrating Bihar Diwas instead of Goa’s Opinion Poll Day, underscoring the neglect of Goan identity. He also questioned the efficiency of the CM Helpline, pointing out that of the 4,600 complaints received, around 1,700 remain unresolved. Sardesai criticized the introduction of multiple grievance platforms while existing ones remain underutilized.
Law and Order Concerns
Expressing concerns over deteriorating law and order, Sardesai accused the Goa Police of extortion. He shared incidents where officers allegedly collected bribes from small businesses and vendors. Additionally, he highlighted the rising crime rates in North Goa, with a 25% increase in theft and burglary cases compared to the previous year.
He further drew comparisons to the governance of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, condemning the current government for failing to uphold law and order.
Opposition to Akshay Patra
Sardesai criticized the government’s decision to replace local Goan women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) with the Akshay Patra Foundation for mid-day meal services. He claimed this move undermines local employment and accused the government of pushing a pro-Gujarati agenda. Sardesai urged the government to support and strengthen the SHGs instead.
Conclusion
Concluding his address, Sardesai warned the government to rectify its approach or face further opposition. He emphasized the need for transparent governance and reaffirmed his commitment to holding the BJP-led administration accountable.
The debate over the Governor’s Address is set to continue, with the opposition firm in its stance against what it terms as the government’s ‘anti-Goan’ policies.
