CUNCOLIM: At a well attended public meeting in Cuncolim, the INDIA Bloc went gunning for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) not only exposing their anti-people policies but also hitting them for disrespecting the nation’s pride and giving succour to tainted people.
Former MLA and a firebrand speaker Adv Radharao Gracias in his usual manner lamented the effect of Prime Minister Narendra Modi government on the common man who was forced to pay Rs 106 per kilo for a simple daily need like onion.
Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas from AAP called upon the people of Cuncolim to honour their reputation of being revolutionaries and vote wisely at these elections and teach a befitting lesson to the people, who had burdened them with high taxes.
Leader of the Opposition and local MLA Yuri Alemao while pointing out that communal amity thrives in Cuncolim, regretted that the people of this historic place are being killed by pollution from the Industrial Estate. “Even my letter to the Prime Minister, did not result in any relief to my people here,” he said.
While assuring the people that Mhadei waters will not be diverted if Congress is voted back to power, Yuri accused the BJP of being corrupt, making money in crores and destroying Goa and Goans.
Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) President Amit Patkar showed a video as how BJP State president Sadanand Shet Tanavde disrespected the national flag and Prime Minister Narendra Modi walking around when the National Anthem was being played during his visit to Russia.
“In contrast, we have Capt Viriato Fernandes, who unfurled the National Tricolour at St Jacinto Island to assure the fishing community that was ill at ease over rumours of India Navy taking over the island,” Patkar said.
South Goa Congress candidate Capt Viriato in his address reminded those gathered that while former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi gave Goans the historic Opinion Poll, the BJP has handed over Mormugao Port to Adani to get his coal from Australia and kill people from Vasco from its pollution.
“After retiring from the Navy, I first toured Goa and only then entered politics only because this land needs to be saved for our next generation,” Capt Viriato said.
‘Nari Nyay’ initiative is aimed at ensuring justice, equality for women: Yuri
MARGAO: Leader of the Opposition Yuri Alemao asserted on Monday that the Congress manifesto would bestow additional authority upon women, particularly in the realm of empowering them.
He emphasised that ‘Nari Nyay ’ is an empowering initiative aimed at ensuring justice and equality for women across India. It encompasses a series of impactful measures.
Alemao highlighted the five commitments of the Congress for women, appealing to the women in Goa to lend their support to the Congress cause.
He underscored the pivotal role of women in every family, acknowledging their contributions, as Congress introduced the Mahalakshmi scheme under ‘Nari Nyay’.
This groundbreaking initiative promises financial support of Rs 1 lakh per year to a woman from every poor family, aiming to uplift them economically while recognising their invaluable contributions to both the household and society, said Yuri.
He articulated ‘Nari Nyay’ commitment to addressing gender disparity in employment opportunities by advocating for 50 per cent reservation for women in new Central government jobs.
This bold initiative aims to break traditional barriers, ensuring women’s equal participation in the workforce, said Yuri.
As part of Nari Nyay’s commitment to honouring the dedication and hard work of grassroots-level women workers, the initiative pledges to double the salary contribution of the Central government for Asha, anganwadi, and mid-day meal workers. This measure not only enhances their financial security but also acknowledges their invaluable contribution to community welfare, highlighting the importance of supporting those who tirelessly serve their communities, said Yuri.
Yuri encapsulated the essence of Nari Nyay by highlighting its embodiment of the Congress Party’s steadfast commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women economically, socially, and legally.
This initiative aims to create a more inclusive and equitable society where every woman can realize her full potential. Alemao’s words echoed the party’s dedication to fostering a future where women stand on equal footing, contributing to a brighter and more progressive India, he stated.

