Team Goemkarponn
FATORDA: Marking National Panchayati Raj Day, Goa Forward Party president and MLA Vijai Sardesai launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led state government, accusing it of systematically weakening panchayati raj institutions and eroding grassroots democracy.
Sardesai alleged that gram sabhas are being sidelined, local voices overridden, and decision-making powers reduced to a mere formality. He said the developments reflect not just a policy lapse but a deeper assault on Goa’s long-standing tradition of community-led governance.
“Goa stands at a painful crossroads,” Sardesai said, adding that the government’s approach amounts to “an attack on Goa’s soul and on our proud tradition of self-governance.”
He further termed the situation a “betrayal,” asserting that democratic structures at the village level are being dismantled.
Warning of resistance, Sardesai said that people in villages would not remain silent. “We will not stay silent as democracy at the grassroots is dismantled. Goa’s villages will rise, and their voice will be heard,” he added.
