The Quepem Municipal Council held a press conference to counter the allegations made by supporters of MLA Altone D’Costa with regards to organising Shigmo parade in Quepem. Dayesh Naik stated that all necessary procedures were adhered to, including the establishment of the festival committee and informing the tourism department. He pointed out that while D’Costa was invited to the meeting, those who are now criticizing the process chose not to attend.
With only two days remaining until the festival, Naik dismissed the opposing press conference as an effort to sow confusion and mislead the residents of Quepem. He highlighted that D’Costa had participated and spoken at the 2023 festival. However, for the 2024 event, due to the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the festival was organized in accordance with government guidelines and regulations.
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Deepali Naik, the chairperson of the municipal council, emphasizes that the traditional Shigmo festival should remain free from political influences. Councilor Prasad Fhaldesai mentioned that during the press conference, invitations were extended to various individuals, including former Shigmo associates, ex-MLAs, ex-ministers, and MLA Altone D’Costa. However, many of those invited chose not to attend.
