The political landscape of Goa has been fraught with challenges, especially for the opposition party, the Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC).
At the centre of these challenges is Amit Patkar, the current president of the GPCC, whose leadership has raised several eyebrows among party members and the electorate alike. Many believe that Patkar, who also runs a mining transportation business in the constituency of CM Dr Pramod Sawant, appears to prioritize his personal interests over the collective goals of the party he represents.
Patkar’s tenure as the head of the opposition party has been marred by a perceived lack of willpower and ineffectiveness in countering the ruling BJP government. His approach to leadership resembles that of a business owner treating the party as a private limited company rather than a political organization with a mandate to challenge the status quo.
He simply does not seem to have the spine to stand up against the BJP government.
Critics argue that this mindset has severely compromised the party’s ability to confront pressing issues facing Goa, from environmental concerns to local governance challenges.
An unsettling moment was highlighted when Patkar responded to the media’s inquiries about why the Congress party isn’t pursuing issues to their logical conclusions. His remark, “What do we do? Cases are being filed against us and we have to fight it alone,” was nothing short of shocking. Such a passive stance raises questions about his commitment to the party’s core values and its duty to represent the citizens of Goa.
One can’t help but imagine how Mahatma Gandhi, who faced countless imprisonments while fighting for India’s independence, would have reacted to such a defeatist attitude.
The lack of a robust response or aggressive strategy in the face of adversity is not only disappointing but also unbecoming of a party president.
Furthermore, a major concern among party members is Patkar’s network and influence—or lack thereof. Insiders suggest that he struggles to connect with both his colleagues and the greater Goan public, leaving him isolated in a role that demands strong advocacy and community engagement.
Reports from a recent PCC meeting indicated that a significant number of party members conveyed their discontent with Patkar’s leadership, arguing that he listens more to his own interests than to the collective voice of the Congress party.
Considering the EscapeGate scandal, the party was quick to take credit for Vice-President Sunil Kawthankars efforts but when he needed help during police summons, Congress seemed to have deserted him. He is fighting all alone.
The GPCC president was not even present at teh police station wherein the police issued a summons to Sunil Kawthankar in the EscapeGate expose.
Despite these red flags, Congress continues to support Patkar, primarily due to financial considerations. His background in business allows him to provide monetary support for party events, which unfortunately has become a crucial factor in maintaining his position. This raises concerns that Congress is continuing with a president who is more of a financier than a strategic leader.
Now the future of the Goa Congress hangs in the balance as long as Amit Patkar remains at the helm. His lack of vision, ineffective leadership, and reluctance to engage politically have branded him as a disgrace to the party. It’s high time the GPCC reassesses its priorities and seeks a leader who can genuinely advocate for the people of Goa, rather than merely operating a political business.
Goans deserve a Congress party that is decisive, proactive, and, above all, devoted to the cause of the community it represents.
SURAJ BNANDREKAR
Editor, Goemkarponn
