Goemkarponn desk
PANAJI: The Aam Aadmi Party has demanded that the Goa Govt provide financial relief to those who depend on daily earnings, stating that Covid restrictions as well as voluntary shutdowns of marketplaces has hit many economically.
State Convenor Rahul Mhambre said that motorcycle pilots and auto rickshaw drivers are the worst hit, as people have stayed away from markets and other locations where their services would be normally be availed. In such times, Mhambre said that the Govt need to announce some financial relief measures so people can tide over until the situation improves.
Mhambre said that motorcycle pilots and rickshaw drivers are our niz Goenkar brothers who have provided their service for years with a smile, and they deserve this support, which won’t cost the Govt much. Mhambre said there is no dearth of money with the Govt if only they have the right intentions, and suggested that a small portion of the Rs. 300 crore from the Golden Jubilee celebration may be utilised to give relief to the common man of Goa.
Mhambre highlighted that the Aam Aadmi Govt in Delhi has recently announced a relief of Rs. 5000 each to daily-wage earners such as auto rickshaw drivers, taxi drivers, and construction workers. Mhambre also reminded that the AAP Govt had given a similar relief last year to these sections during the entire national lockdown period.
Mhambre also appealed to the CM to ensure knee-jerk actions of closing markets cause undue suffering to the vendors and local farmers. Referring to the sudden closure of Panaji Municipal Market yesterday without any warning, he stated that many of the vendors and flower, fruit & vegetable sellers could have avoided the losses they incurred, had they been informed ahead of time.
Mhambre also reminded CM Sawant of the Labour-gate scam last year, and warned against any corruption in the name of financial relief.