the goan I network
PANAJI
Strongly stating that BJP was not violating the model code of conduct by using its social security schemes for campaign, Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar said that it was the right of the government to go to the people with the schemes it has formulated, ahead of the polls.
Addressing a press conference, Parsekar said, “It is our right to take the schemes to the people that have been formulated by the government. We are asking for positive mandate. We are not speaking anything about others. Violation takes place only when the schemes are sanctioned or any assurance is given after the code comes into force. It is our right to tell people what has been our performance. The code has not been violated.”
Pointing out that strict action should be initiated by the authorities concerned if there is violation of code of conduct, he said, “The schemes and flagship projects introduced by the State government are not a weapon to garner votes and it is not even to lure voters. The government is facing the polls based on its performance. We only have to take care that the code of conduct is not violated. Neither the MLAs nor the Party’s office bearers should do it.”
When asked about why he is not being projected as the CM candidate by BJP, he said, “Even in the past I was never projected as the CM. Though I became the CM and I presided over the government for almost more than 2 years, let the procedure be carried out in a democratic way. Let the elected representatives decide who will be the CM. I don’t feel I am being snubbed by central leaders.”
Commenting on guidelines issued by the Church, he said, “During every election, the church guidelines are issued and the perception is being created that the church is against the BJP. Church is a religious institution and I would not like to further comment on it. But, over a period of time, minorities have started looking at us positively.”
Pointing out that Francis D’Souza was the first MLA from the minority community who accepted BJP’s candidature and was a part of BJP’s Cabinet too, he said, “After that many others too accepted our candidature and are with us for the last five years.”
