PERNEM
Providing better internet connectivity to ensure a better connect with the people all over Mandrem constituency appears to be the latest strategy in a growing political battle between MLA Dayanand Sopte and MGP leader Jeet Arolkar.
Both leaders have been setting up free WiFi services in different parts of Mandrem and while they officially claim their free service is to support students during their online classes, they are clearly seeing to appeal to people ahead of the assembly polls.
Mandrem MLA Dayanand Sopte has provided free WiFi services in Parcem, Tuem, Morjim and Mandrem, while Arolkar has provided free WiFi services in Morjim, Arambol and Mandrem.
Incidentally, both have been accused by rival workers of either obstructing or damaging internet cables providing the WiFi services.
Sopte has taken a dig at the MGP and claimed that some people have been announcing various schemes despite not being an MLA just for the popularity.
“While my intention to start this facility is for needy students, others who are providing services are based on the calculation of votes. Mandrem locals are smart and they will decide who is wise and who is selfish,” Sopte had said at a recent event.
Arolkar has hit back at the BJP and said, “If the government is incapable of a service, and if that service is provided by someone else, those in the government should appreciate it.”
“Critics should first make internet available for 24 hours and not fool students by providing it to them for a mere 2 hours a day," said Arolkar.
