Team Goemkarponn
BETALBATIM: Taking a sharp dig at the BJP and Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Goa president Adv. Amit Palekar on Sunday said the BJP must be rattled by the work carried out by AAP MLAs in South Goa, claiming it showcased the party’s alternative governance model for the State.
Addressing a public meeting at Betalbatim in the presence of AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, Palekar said the initiatives undertaken in Benaulim and Velim reflected what he described as AAP’s “Goa Model” of governance. He cited neighbourhood healthcare facilities, improved roads and an administration free from extortion and intimidation as key achievements.
“The work done by our MLAs is there for everyone to see. Healthcare has been brought closer to people, infrastructure has improved and there is no gundaraj or hafta culture. This is the model we want to replicate across Goa,” Palekar said, while taking a swipe at the former MLA by remarking that seeing AAP’s work would be enough to raise his blood pressure.
Palekar also extended an open invitation to Congress workers and supporters who, he said, were disillusioned by what he termed the party’s repeated understanding with the BJP. He asserted that those serious about defeating the BJP and ushering in clean governance should rally behind the AAP.
“This fight is not about political parties, but about safeguarding Goa. If you truly want honest governance, AAP is the only credible option,” he said.
AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, who was present at the meeting, echoed the sentiment that AAP’s focus remained on governance and public service.
Benaulim MLA Capt. Venzy Viegas said the upcoming elections would be contested solely on the basis of work delivered and integrity maintained over the past three-and-a-half years.
“The only plank before the people is our work. We did not indulge in gundaraj or family politics. Our approach has been service-oriented — from starting free clinics to standing firmly with citizens when the government failed to support them,” Viegas said.
Velim MLA Cruz Silva said there was a growing desire for change among Goans and described the forthcoming Zilla Panchayat elections as the first step towards that shift.
“People have had enough. These elections mark the beginning of change in Goa. Do not be misled by opportunistic alliances. AAP has consistently stood with the people and will continue to do so,” Silva said.
The meeting at Betalbatim witnessed the presence of party leaders, workers and supporters, with AAP leaders reiterating their commitment to expanding the party’s governance model across the State.
