VASCO
Hours after Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced that the Formula 4 racing event would be shifted out of Mormugao, local MLA Sankalp Amonkar expressed disappointment, calling it a politically motivated move that cost the constituency a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Amonkar said while he respected public opinion, the controversy had been created by a few individuals for political gain. “My stand is clear “ I will stand with my people. If they do not want the race, I am with them. But this entire issue was politically driven. Some councillors and a former MLA have misled locals for their own selfish motives,” Amonkar said.
Hits back at criticism
Amonkar criticised a few councillors and a former MLA from his own party, saying they opposed the event only to create trouble. “If they had concerns, they could have met the Chief Minister or the State Party President instead of misleading people. These same people were silent when houses were marked for demolition in Bogda and Harbour, or when old pathways in Jetty were blocked to trouble locals. Now they have suddenly woken up just to gain publicity,” he said.
Rejecting claims that he stood to gain personally, Amonkar said his only goal was to support a project that would benefit the people.
“Some allege I would profit from the race or that it was a favour from the CM. These are false claims. I have no personal interest in it. My focus has always been to end revenge politics in Mormugao. But that change has upset those who survive on division and hate,” he said.
‘CM had reviewed event’
Amonkar said the Chief Minister had personally inspected the site, reviewed the plans, and interacted with residents before deciding. “The CM saw the proposed route, checked all details, met councillors and the MMC Chairperson, and explained that the event could generate more than Ras 900 crore. It would have boosted tourism and business for locals,” he said.
He added that political rivalry had derailed the project.
“The CM respected public opinion and shifted the venue. I support his decision, but the fact remains that Mormugao has lost a golden chance to be on the world map,” Amonkar said.
He alleged that only a handful of councillors and rivals opposed the event out of jealousy. “These rejected politicians opposed the event just to put me down. The youth and many residents are upset because this race could have changed Mormugao’s future,” he added.
Missed economic benefit
Recalling a past event, Amonkar said, “When we hosted a national powerlifting championship for just three days, every hotel was full. People had to book rooms in Margao and Panaji. The transport sector and local businesses thrived. If such a small event could help so much, imagine what a world-class Formula 4 race could have done.”
He said residents would eventually see through the politically motivated campaign that stopped the event.
“Some people with vested interests have deprived our youth of a historic opportunity. Mormugao had been chosen for an international event, but politics hijacked it. This golden opportunity is now lost forever,” Amonkar said.
