PANAJI
The Opposition Congress on Sunday criticised the BJP-led government over the latest increase in domestic LPG cylinder prices, accusing it of burdening households and failing to keep its promises to women. Goa Pradesh Congress Committee Media Chairman Amarnath Panjikar said the hike has once again increased the financial strain on ordinary families. He recalled that the BJP had promised three free LPG cylinders in its manifesto for the 2022 Assembly elections. “Was it just another election jumla?” he asked, urging the government to fulfil its commitment.
Panjikar said repeated increases in cooking gas prices, along with rising costs of essential goods, fuel, education and healthcare, have placed households under severe pressure. He accused the BJP of spending heavily on government publicity and propaganda while ignoring the difficulties faced by families in Goa. Targeting the BJP Mahila Morcha, Panjikar questioned its silence on an issue that directly affects women. He said rising LPG prices force women to cut household spending and compromise on nutrition.
“The BJP’s slogan of women empowerment stands completely exposed,” he said, demanding an immediate rollback of the price hike.
Meanwhile, the Congress sought to strengthen its grassroots network through a Karyakarta Melava held in the Valpoi and Poriem blocks. The meeting, led by Mhadei District Congress President Mangaldas Naik, saw enthusiastic participation from party workers and office-bearers, Panjikar said.
At the gathering, AICC Goa in-charge Manikrao Thakare stressed the importance of building a strong grassroots organisation. GPCC President Girish Chodankar called for collective efforts to strengthen the party across Goa.
Other leaders, including Carlos Alvares Ferreira, Pratiksha Khalap, Pradeep Naik and Shashank Narvekar, also addressed the gathering, calling for unity and greater public engagement.
