the goan I network
PANAJI
The body of scribes ‘Goa Union of Journalists (GUJ) has condemned Goa Forward Party president Vijai Sardesai’s taunting remarks against a journalist during a press conference in Panaji on Saturday and demanded an apology from the legislator.
“The Goa Union of Journalists strongly condemns the disrespectful manner in which the journalist, Harish Volvoikar, was treated by the Goa Forward Party president at its party office in Panaji,” said Rajtilak Naik, president of GUJ in a press release issued on Sunday.
Volvoikar, a journalist representing India Today and Goajunction had asked the Goa Forward party president a series of questions including the one on ‘Person of Goa Origin’ (POGO) Bill. Vijai reacted harshly against the pointed questions.
“I’ve not come here to be cross examined like I am in the court. If you want to take down what I am saying, you take it down “ otherwise you can go. I am not coming here to be cross examined,” said Sardesai.
Volvoikar complained about the mistreatment by Sardesai to GUJ. In his complaint to the Goa Union of Journalists Valvoikar has said that the statement made by the elected representative was unwarranted and unethical, while discharging my duties.
“The Goa Union of Journalists strongly feels Sardesai’s unwarranted behaviour is an attack on the freedom of press. The Goa Forward Party president should apologise to the journalist”, added Naik.
