The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Goa has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of misusing government platforms for political purposes and intimidating members of the press.
Reacting to a statement made against a journalist during Shiv Mahotsav, AAP Goa President Valmiki Naik said the BJP must first educate its own cadre about the fundamental difference between the party and the government.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
“The BJP needs to understand that the government is temporary. The same people who are Chief Minister, ministers and MLAs today will be sitting in the opposition tomorrow,” Naik said.
He alleged that BJP leaders have become “drunk with power” and are misusing the dais of government functions to threaten and intimidate journalists.
“If BJP leaders are using a government platform to intimidate a member of the press in this manner, then they will not even be in the opposition in the future — they will be sitting at home,” Naik warned.
The AAP leader asserted that freedom of the press is a cornerstone of democracy and any attempt to suppress journalists must be strongly condemned. He demanded that the BJP leadership rein in its leaders and ensure that government events are not turned into political platforms.
Naik added that AAP will continue to stand with journalists and defend their right to report freely and without fear.
