MAPUSA
North Goa Congress candidate Ramakant Khalap issued a direct challenge to incumbent MLA Shripad Naik, inviting a debate to compare their respective performances as Members of Parliament.
Khalap accused Naik of avoiding a debate due to his perceived lack of achievements during his 25-year tenure as an MP.
Addressing a corner meeting in Bastora in the presence of Aldona MLA Carlos Ferreira, Khalap highlighted his track record of raising critical issues concerning Goa in Parliament, even during condolence motions.
In contrast, he alleged that Naik had failed to raise a single issue pertaining to Goa throughout his lengthy tenure as an MP and Minister.
Khalap drew attention to his own accomplishments during his 18-month tenure as MP and Minister, contrasting them with Naik's long incumbency.
He particularly emphasised his initiative in tabling the women's reservation bill in 1997, noting similarities with the recent bill proposed by the Prime Minister.
He highlighted concerns about media control, propaganda tactics, and the suppression of opposition voices, drawing attention to the need for robust democratic principles.
Aldona MLA Carlos Ferreira pointed out the lack of substantial projects brought to Goa by Shripad Naik during his tenure as Union Minister.
Despite holding multiple portfolios, including Defence, Tourism, Ports, Civil Aviation, and AYUSH, Naik was questioned on his tangible contributions to Goa's development beyond the scope of MPLAD funds.
The call for a debate and the critique of Naik's performance underscore the intensifying political discourse in the lead-up to the elections, as candidates vie for voter confidence by contrasting their records and visions for the future.
