Judgement day has arrived. The stage is set for 11.35 lakh voters across the State to stand in judgement of 28 candidates in the fray for the two Lok Sabha seats and the bypolls in three assembly segments. It is this crucial vote that is going to decide on the all-important Goa-Centre connection. And it is this vote, once again, that is going to set the roadmap for the government in the State.
A Member of Parliament holds a herculean responsibility of being a true ambassador of his State and its people. They are the voice of Goa in Parliament. Taking credit on how the MP fund was utilized in undertaking various projects is not an achievement that an MP should be proud of. The voter should not be swayed by the long list of toilets and roads constructed or the renovation work undertaken under the MP fund. All of this is secondary when there are more serious issues grappling the State. Issues like Special Status, CRZ, mining imbroglio and many others which have a direct Centre-State connect should be the prime focus of any MP. They should ensure that these are debated and discussed in Parliament in the best interest of the State.
The voter has an equally important responsibility at the three bypolls. A vote here has the power to shift the political equilibrium in the State. The electorate needs to introspect on the circumstances by which a byelection was imposed on them, especially in Shiorda and Mandrem. Union Surface Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari has squarely blamed the electorate for defections, but the ball is back in the people’s court. It’s judgement day again.
Goans need legislators to be their voices in the Assembly. They are required to work for the greater good of the people and their well-being. MLAs have a responsibility to legislate, frame policies and deliver services while respecting and honouring the land and its people. Goa needs legislators who have impeccable integrity and who work selflessly in the interests of the people. This is where trust and confidence is won. The mandate of the people cannot be sacrificed for selfish personal interests.
Let party manifestos not blur our vision. Manifestos are sheer election promises made to woo voters. There is no guarantee that these promises will be kept. And it comes as no surprise when parties list out their unkept promises. Development and stability are magic words which every politico uses, from a panch to an MP, to win over people. Goa needs legislators who can stand up together with its people, voice concerns on behalf of constituents, not against them.
Let us set out to vote with a clean conscience and absolute clarity in mind on the choice we are going to make.
