PANAJI
At the meeting, around 15 to 20 young men pushed the policemen manning the small entrance to the stage and abused Rane saying he does not represent Poriem before pelting stones at him. Poriem is represented by Leader of Opposition Pratapsingh Raoji Rane, who was scheduled to address the meeting but couldn't attend it.
Speaking to The Goan, Vishwajeet stated, "The main attempt was to injure my father, Pratapsingh Rane. I condemn this untoward incident. It is each one's democratic right to address a meeting and to express opinions. I appeal to the BJP leaders to rein in such elements from its organisation. Let us fight the polls democratically."
He dared the ruling party to prove its commitment to the laws of the land by ensuring that action is taken against the miscreants.
"Since several elections, BJP has been unable to win any seats in Sattari. Apart from Valpoi and Poriem, the ruling party is also losing its footing in Mayem, Sanquelim and has very little chances of winning in Bicholim. As they are unable to get people on their side, they are resorting to such undemocratic behaviour," the Valpoi MLA alleged.
With the heat of elections in the air, Vishwajeet voiced suspicion of a well-staged, well-planned strategy behind this incident.
"BJP's meetings at Honda and Usgao have drawn a meagre crowd, while a single meeting addressed by me has drawn more than twice the people. The strategy is to intimidate me and to make me do something wrong. I refuse to do anything illegal and unconstitutional," the Congressman declared.
Vishwajeet sought to point out that the meeting at Poriem had an audience of around 500 supporters from the panchayat's jurisdiction and the event would have concluded peacefully had it not been for the 16 accused who attempted to wreak havoc at the venue.
"This is a wrong trend being set by the ruling party. I have never disturbed the mettings convened NY other parties in my constituency. I have faith in democratic values," he elaborated.
Vishwajeet also informed that though he has sustained injuries on his shoulder and back in the attack, he has refrained from mentioning this in the complaint.
