Rahul Gandhi has shut the doors on defectors in Goa, saying those who betrayed Congress and the people will have no place in the Congress. This he said was in tune with the wishes of party workers who felt that those who defected should not get reentry. “We have decided to fight this election based on people’s issues, he said addressing he packed to capacity Shyama Prasad Mukherjee stadium, at Taleigao Plateau on Saturday.
After extensive interactions with fishermen, toddy tappers and mining affected persons Rahul Gandhi declared that Goa will not be made a coal hub and promised not to allow the three linear projects. The Congress leader also assured to restart legal mining.
Launching a frontal attack on the Central Govt and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rahul said there was a systematic attack on the unorganized sector, labour and farmers and give these sectors to the richest and most powerful. Ports, airports, coal, agriculture, retail, telecom and other sectors were sought to be handed over to five or six people.
Proposing a vision for Goa, Rahul said, Congress would establish a Nyaya Yojana and make Goa an education, health and tourism hub, and give livelihoods, without destroying the environment.
Finally, Rahul said this is not just an election we are fighting, but an ideological fight to retain the culture of Goa and India. Goa has to show the rest of India that we can stand together, protect our culture, environment and move forward.
Commenting on National Media, he said they are distorting the picture of the country. “They do not portray the problems of small traders etc.” Rahul opined. On being handed a note by GPCC President Girish Chodankar, Rahul Gandhi said, “I’m told that the media in Goa is balanced. We expect you to be fair and you are doing your job and we are proud of you.” He also thanked the media for being fair.
