PANJIM: “Bhivapachi Garaz Na” (no need to fear), an off-the-cuff remark by Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant during the COVID-19 pandemic that had triggered criticism and memes on social media at that time, has now been converted by him to his advantage.

Netizens had taken to social media ridiculing the Chief Minister with his off-the-cuff remark. Even during the campaign for the Assembly elections, the opposition had taken many a dig at Sawant by uttering “Bhivapachi Garaz Na”.

Unperturbed by the opposition jibe at him, Sawant used the statement “Bhivapachi Garaz Na” to full advantage on Wednesday in his Budget speech.

While presenting the State Budget for the year 2022-2023, Sawant began his speech with “Bhivapachi Garaz Na”. He said that while serving as the CEO of the State he mustered the courage to tell the people of Goa that “Bhivapachi Garaz Na” (they should not worry) during COVID-19 pandemic and that his government proved it through its actions.

He repeated the phrase while concluding his 90-minute budget speech, again saying “Bhivapachi Garaz Na” while hoping to make Goa Swayampurna (self-reliant).

This could possibly take the wind out of the sails of the opposition, who may no longer be able to use this phrase to target the Chief Minister.