Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant today hit back at Rahul Gandhi over his reported remarks describing Goa as a “corruption model”, asserting that the state’s development record speaks for itself and that the Congress leader’s visit would make no difference to Goa.
Responding to questions from reporters, Sawant said the focus should be on showcasing Goa’s “development model” rather than engaging in allegations of corruption. He cited the Swayampurna Goem initiative, the state’s two airports and the development of Mormugao Port as examples of Goa’s progress.
The Chief Minister said leaders from across the country had visited Goa to understand its development initiatives and self-reliance model.
He maintained that the allegations made by Gandhi had no substance and advised the Congress leader to think carefully before making such statements.
Sawant also criticised the handling of a Kunbi shawl, which he described as a symbol promoted in connection with Goa’s Scheduled Tribe community. Referring to an incident in which the shawl was reportedly removed and tossed aside by a person on stage, he said the manner in which it was treated had hurt Goans and would not be easily forgotten.
Contrasting the incident with the Prime Minister’s gesture, Sawant said the same shawl had been presented to Narendra Modi, who continued wearing it throughout the programme and while leaving the venue.
He said this demonstrated the importance the Prime Minister and other leaders attached to respecting Goa’s culture and people.
Taking a further swipe at Gandhi, Sawant said brief visits, public appearances and waving to crowds were not enough, and challenged the Congress leader to explain the work carried out during Congress-led governments.
The Chief Minister said his government had made its report card publicly available, allowing people to assess its performance and development initiatives.
Referring to Gandhi’s political march, Sawant remarked that what was intended to be a yatra had turned into a jatra, describing it as a complete failure.
Asked whether Gandhi’s arrival would have any impact on Goa, Sawant responded that it would make no difference at all.
