Team Goemkarponn
MORMUGAO: A fierce political slugfest has broken out between Mormugao MLA Sankalp Amonkar and South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes over the much-publicised Rose Circle ground development in Sada, with both leaders hurling accusations of betrayal, corruption, and political posturing.
The row erupted after MLA Amonkar on Tuesday kicked off developmental work at the ground and accused Fernandes of trying to take credit through “fake publicity stunts.” Amonkar claimed the MP had publicised a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the same project on the exact day he received his official work order.
“If Fernandes really wanted to develop the ground, why didn’t he start earlier? He’s only misleading people. He should stop making noise from Delhi and step onto the ground,” Amonkar charged.
Amonkar escalated the attack, accusing Fernandes of hypocrisy on coal pollution issues, and alleged that the MP maintains links with major coal handling firms.
“He lectures on coal pollution but enjoys tea with Adani and Jindal in Delhi. Let him deny this. I challenge him to visit Damodar Temple and prove otherwise — we have evidence,” he declared.
A swift and sharp rebuttal came from MP Fernandes on Wednesday. Dismissing Amonkar’s remarks as baseless, Fernandes accused the MLA of betraying the public mandate by defecting to the BJP after winning on a Congress ticket.
“He swore in a temple, church, and dargah not to switch sides, and yet he did. Who’s the real liar?” Fernandes shot back.
The MP went further, levelling serious charges of corruption and extortion, claiming Amonkar was pressuring port-based businesses and even small vendors for 15% commission.
“Several companies have exited Goa Port because of his arm-twisting tactics. Instead of challenging me, let him clarify these allegations,” Fernandes said.
The explosive exchange between the two prominent local leaders has sparked intense political speculation, with observers noting that the battle for credit over development projects may be an early indicator of election-season tensions in South Goa.
