MARGAO
President of Goencho Avaaz Party Swapnesh Sherlekar has demanded to know whether the budget offers any relief to the common man, even as the party lamented that the budget has continued to cater to the vested interests of a thin layer of the nation’s elite, whilst leaving the bulk of the Goan populace out in the cold.
"Given the intense hardship brought to the lives of Goans by the ongoing pandemic, one would imagine that the government’s first concern and priority would have been to ease the growing burden on the people. Yet again, however, the people of Goa have been callously let down by their government, which appears to be unconcerned about the needs and well being of Goans. Given Goa’s already financially precarious position, how can the government even consider going full steam ahead with five-star infrastructure, renovation projects and towers at the cost of the public exchequer? he said.
Goencho Avaaz Party also pointed out that elements of last year’s budget, which the government failed to fulfil, have been recycled and incorporated in this year’s budget. For example, the medical college in South Goa from last year’s budget, which is yet to see the light of day, has been regurgitated in this year’s budget. It appears that as usual, the powers that be are seeking to weave illusions in an endeavour to sedate Goans through the 'feel good' factor.
The party said that the government in its inimitable style has addressed the serious job crisis in the state by making sweeping statements and predictions without any valid substantiation.
