PERNEM
The Congress is committed to women's empowerment and will not limit itself to the mandated 33% reservation. If capable and deserving women leaders are available, the party is prepared to allot up to 50% of its election tickets to women, Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) president Girish Chodankar said while interacting with the media during a Congress workers' convention in Pernem.
Responding to a question about leaders who had left the Congress, Chodankar said everyone opposed to the BJP should come together under the Congress banner to strengthen the party and build a strong anti-BJP movement in the State.
He added that many leaders and workers who had distanced themselves from the Congress for various reasons, including denial of party tickets, are now willing to return.
"The Congress welcomes everyone who genuinely opposes the BJP," he said.
Chodankar said several leaders and workers from across Goa are keen to join the Congress. He emphasised that the party is a people's movement and is open to welcoming new members.
However, he clarified that those with a history of betrayal, serious criminal charges or involvement in illegal activities would not be admitted. Those interested must first approach their respective constituency block committees. Their applications will then be scrutinised by the district committee before being forwarded to the Pradesh Congress Committee for final approval.
Chodankar also indicated that the Congress and the Goa Forward Party are likely to contest the forthcoming Assembly elections together. He said senior Congress leaders would soon begin discussions with Goa Forward leaders on a possible alliance.
Highlighting women's participation in politics, Chodankar said the Congress is determined to provide greater opportunities to women. He reiterated that the party is willing to field women in up to 50% of constituencies if capable and popular women leaders are available.
He urged women to strengthen their leadership at the grassroots level, work closely with the people and demonstrate their abilities well before the Assembly elections.
