Team Goemkarponn
Chimbel: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Sunday actively participated in the Chimbel people’s movement opposing the BJP-led Goa government’s proposed Unity Mall and Administrative Tower, with senior party leader Amit Palekar calling for the resistance to spread across the state.
Addressing a massive public meeting in Chimbel, Palekar strongly criticised the BJP government, accusing it of destroying the environment and working in favour of corporate interests. He appealed to Goans, particularly the Bahujan community, to draw inspiration from the unity displayed in Chimbel and raise their voices against what he termed anti-people policies of the ruling establishment.
“Senior leaders from ST and OBC communities have, for long, allowed their people to be tied to the BJP’s agenda. That phase must now end. Let the flame ignited in Chimbel spread across Goa,” Palekar said, urging citizens to unite against the government’s projects.
The protest against the Unity Mall and Administrative Tower witnessed an overwhelming response, with opposition parties across the political spectrum extending solidarity to the local movement. The agitation was treated as a collective struggle by citizens and political groups alike.
AAP senior leader Amit Palekar was joined by movement convenors Govind Shirodkar, Anna Gracias, Nikita Mardolkar and Brian Gonsalves; AAP Minority Wing Vice President Sarfaraz Sheikh; and social activists Rama Kankonkar, Shankar Polji and Mariano Ferrao. Four members of the Chimbel Panchayat, excluding those supporting the sarpanch, were also present at the protest.
In a symbolic gesture, Palekar addressed the gathering while seated on his knees, visibly emotional as he spoke about the participation of women and children in the agitation.
“Under the scorching sun, mothers have gathered here with their children—not for politics, but for the protection of Goa. This fight is for our rights and for the environment. When future generations judge us, none of us should feel guilty,” he said.
His address drew a strong and spontaneous response from the crowd. During the agitation, two resolutions were unanimously passed, warning the BJP government that the people’s movement would be intensified if the proposed projects were not reconsidered.
Several opposition leaders and social activists also addressed the gathering, strongly criticising Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, his ministers and BJP legislators for what they described as anti-people and anti-environment policies.
