After a prolonged silence spanning seven months, Manoj Parab, also known as Tukaram, has resurfaced to reinvigorate the Revolutionary Goans Party (RGP). In what felt like a dramatic revival, Parab held a press conference declaring that the party was ready to confront the pressing issues in Goa, just when many believed the RGP was on the verge of extinction.
The chief’s re-emergence is a significant event in the political landscape in Goa. Parab’s confident assertion that the party is back and prepared to take on the ruling BJP government. With mounting discontent over pressing local issues such as the cash for jobs scandal, the Mhadei river dispute, and the ongoing Suleiman Siddiqui land scam, the timing of his return seems calculated. However, it raises questions about his absence during these crucial moments.
During his announcement, Parab focused heavily on the RGP’s decision to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections solo. He argued that this decision has been well received by the people, many of whom reportedly feel disenchanted by the performance of the united opposition. “It was the right decision to go solo in the Lok Sabha election. We are now receiving feedback from the people that it was the correct choice not to align with parties like Congress or AAP,” he remarked.
Asserting that he had taken a step back to observe the political developments in Goa, Parab insisted that the RGP was poised for a resurgence. He described their upcoming campaign as a necessary “revolution” aimed at addressing the state’s myriad challenges. In his address, he firmly dismissed rumors regarding MLA Viresh Borkar’s alleged defection to Congress, underscoring Borkar’s continued commitment to the RGP.
Notably, Parab also addressed the long-standing issue of the cash for jobs scandal, framing it as a persistent blemish on Goa’s political history. “This is not a new scam for Goa; it was initiated during Congress rule and has been innovatively aggravated by the BJP,” he stated. By placing the blame on both previous and current administrations, he aimed to position the RGP as a party of accountability.
Furthermore, as the RGP gears up to contest selectively in the 2027 elections, Parab outlined plans for a membership drive and a donation campaign, signaling an intent not only to regain political ground but also to bolster the party’s infrastructure. “The decision on fielding candidates will be taken by the party’s election committee,” he confirmed, emphasizing a structured approach to their electoral strategy.
While Manoj Parab’s return might just be the ignition the Revolutionary Goans Party needs to galvanize its base and rally the disillusioned electorate.
While questions linger about his previous absence during pivotal moments, the depth of connection the party can forge with voters ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections will be crucial. With a mixture of optimism and scepticism in the air, Parab’s declaration of a “revolution” certainly sets the stage for political manoeuvring in Goa. Whether it flourishes into tangible change or falls back into the shadows of Goan politics remains to be seen.
SURAJ BNANDREKAR
Editor, Goemkarponn
