MAPUSA
In a surprising move, BJP legislator Michael Lobo on Monday openly criticised his own party's government in Goa, questioning the recent decision to withdraw several key bills from the just-concluded session of the Goa Legislative Assembly.
Lobo, known for his outspoken nature, suggested that the decision indicated internal issues within the ruling party.
Speaking during a programme to observe the death anniversary of Goa’s first Chief Minister, Dayanand Bandodkar, in the coastal village of Calangute, Lobo expressed his dissatisfaction with the government's actions.
He noted that the bills, which had been tabled after thorough consideration by cabinet ministers, were intended to serve the public interest and their sudden withdrawal sends a negative message to the people.
"It is shocking that despite having a clear majority with 33 MLAs, so many bills have been withdrawn. It feels like ‘all is not well,’ and this has not gone down well with the public who have been following the proceedings," Lobo said.
The withdrawal of the bills, he argued, raises concerns about the government's decision-making process and accountability to the people.
"If one bill is withdrawn, there is no problem, but when so many bills are withdrawn, it shows that something is amiss. We are answerable to the people of Goa and our constituencies. People ask us questions, and it is not good for healthy democracy to introduce a bill and then withdraw it," he added.
Lobo also indicated that he plans to discuss the matter with BJP President Sadanand Tanavde and Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to understand the reasons behind the decision.
Among the bills withdrawn was the contentious Goa Town and Country Planning (Amendment and Validation) Bill, 2024, which had faced significant backlash from stakeholders and NGOs.
Town and Country Planning Minister Vishwajit Rane, who faced intense scrutiny, withdrew four amendment bills, including the TCP Amendment Bill.
The withdrawal of these bills has sparked a debate within the state, with many questioning the government's commitment to addressing the concerns of the people.
On the impending cabinet reshuffle, Lobo stated that it is entirely the chief minister's prerogative.
When asked about his own prospects of becoming a minister, Lobo responded stoically, "We are good where we are."
