VALPOI
Citizens of Sattari taluka strongly condemned attempts to defame Goa Minister Vishwajit Rane, stating that while democracy guarantees the right to protest, it should not be misused for personal attacks or character assassination.
A large protest meeting was held at Hatwada Junction in Valpoi where more than 5,000 people gathered to express their support for the minister. Participants alleged that Rane was being deliberately targeted over the amendment to the Town and Country Planning Act and warned that such attempts to tarnish his reputation would not be tolerated.
Speakers at the gathering said the people of Sattari would strongly oppose any efforts to insult the dignity and self-respect of the taluka. They also warned that if necessary, thousands of people would again take to the streets to defend their leader.
Valpoi Municipal Council Chairperson Prasanna Gawas said Sattari had witnessed significant development under the leadership of Vishwajit Rane. According to him, several development projects initiated under Rane’s guidance have accelerated social and economic progress in the region.
Zilla Panchayat member Nilesh Pawar described Rane as a leader who has consistently supported ordinary citizens and contributed to the development of Sattari. He said attempts to malign him through issues related to the Town Planning Department would not be accepted by the people.
Former Sarpanch Sandhyakali called Rane a pillar of development in Sattari taluka, highlighting the benefits of various schemes and initiatives implemented during his leadership.
Maus Panchayat Sarpanch Somnath Kale condemned the burning of an effigy of the minister during a protest held in Panaji, calling the act unfortunate and disrespectful.
Honda Panchayat Sarpanch Shivdas Madkar said the large turnout demonstrated the unity of Sattari’s people. He warned that no one should insult the self-respect of the taluka and stated that if necessary, residents were prepared to organize a massive protest in Panaji.
Devanand Parab emphasized that while democratic protests are legitimate, using them to make personal attacks is unacceptable. He affirmed that the people of Sattari would firmly stand behind Rane.
Several public representatives and local leaders also expressed their support, including Ranjana Gawas, Rajaram Pawar, Diksha Gawas, Nitesh Gawde, Deepa Naik, journalist B.D. Mote, councillor Sarfaraz Saiyed, youth activists Devang Gavkar and Aditya Botarkar, and Advocate Digambar Naik.
Participants first gathered outside Rane’s office before marching in a rally to Hatwada Junction in Valpoi. Social worker Vinod Shinde delivered the introductory address, urging participants to avoid personal remarks. Although effigies of political opponents had been prepared, they were not displayed following his appeal.
The meeting concluded with citizens lighting candles as a symbol of solidarity with Vishwajit Rane.
