MAPUSA: The Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC) displayed shock as well discontent over the decision taken by BJP of removing Urban Development Minister of Goa, Francis D’souza from the ministry.
While addressing the media on Tuesday the Chairperson of MMC, Ryan Braganza said that this came as a shock and was least expected by them and the people of Mapusa. “The fact that the Urban Development Minister was from Mapusa was an advantage. I would not like to comment on the decision taken by the BJP. Whatever they have thought maybe is for the best in their wisdom. I only feel that now we will not be able to fast track our projects as far as Mapusa is concerned,” he said.
The MMC Chief went on to congratulate the new Urban Development Minister of Goa, Milind Naik. He said “ As far as our MLA is concerned I will say, hope and pray that he recovers to the fullest. As soon as he comes down fit and fine the government reinstalls him as a minister in the Goa cabinet”.
A councilor of MMC, Joshua D’souza pointed out that the decision came as a big shock. “There was a lot of rumors spread around that there was going to be a reshuffle in the cabinet and MLA, Francis D’souza name came coming up several times. The only thing that comes to us as a shock is that he was informed prior to the decision being taken. It would have been good on the part of the party if they had taken him into confidence and come to a decision where it was beneficial to everyone,” told Joshua, the son of Mapusa MLA, Francis D’souza.
Another councilor, Rohan Kavlekar highlighted that all the councillors were shocked and were forced to accept the decision. “This is a setback for the karyakatas from Bardez,” said Rohan.
Another senior most councilor, Sandip Falari congratulated the two newly included ministers but at the same time felt that the people of Bardez were now left with no way to go. “Francis used to meet the people of Bardez who came with their grievances for nearly half a day. People from the surrounding areas used to come to him because he was accessible. He has served and been loyal to the party for the last 20 years. After completing the treatment on October 8 he said he would be back in Goa and could go back to routine. I feel they should have waited for few more days,” told Sandip.
