Lok Sabha Election 2024: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant came under criticism due to increasing tension between the two communities amid preparations and campaigning for the elections of two Lok Sabha seats in Goa. Goa CM Pramod Sawant is facing the resentment of Bhandari community in Sanquelim area of the state.
A clash broke out between Maratha and Bhandari communities at the Rudreshwar temple during the Palki festival in Sanquelim area of Central Goa. Police intervention in this incident increased the tension between Maratha and Bhandari communities. They allege that due to the police not taking proper action, the resentment against the police and the Goa government has increased in the Bhandari community.
Slogans raised against Chief Minister Pramod Sawant
People of Bhandari community raised slogans against Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and made serious allegations and held him responsible for the anarchy during the palanquin procession. According to the allegation, despite the presence of police, during the Palki festival, people from other castes attacked members of Bhandari caste, leading to violent clashes. Community leaders claimed that the police violated the sanctity of the temple by entering the temple wearing sticks and shoes in the name of handling the situation.
The incident, which took place in Chief Minister Pramod Sawant’s own constituency, has not only sparked outrage within the Bhandari community, but has also been strongly condemned by opposition leaders. Goa Aam Aadmi Party President Amit Palekar, who himself belongs to the Bhandari community, reached the temple after the incident. Goa Aam Aadmi Party President Amit Palekar questioned Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on giving free hand to the police to go against the Bhandari community.
Amit Palekar’s allegations against CM Pramod Sawant
Amit Palekar said, “This act of the police is not only against the Bhandari community but also against the Hindu culture. Police were present on the premises when the clash took place, but they did not try to stop the clash. This shows that “Chief Minister Pramod Sawant is trying to divide the Hindu community in the state, as the BJP is doing across the country.”
Amit Palekar said, “I myself, representing the Bhandari community, want to ask the Chief Minister why the government is against the Bhandaris. With the Lok Sabha elections approaching, the Bhandari community has clearly decided that they will not support the Chief Minister or the BJP. Will not stand together because they have realized the atrocities committed against them. First they targeted Bhandari community leaders, sending ED after them and now the safety of our community is being endangered by disrupting their rituals. “
Bhandari leaders disillusioned with BJP- Congress
Goa Pradesh Congress Committee vice-president Sunil Kavathankar criticized the BJP government’s failure to stop the clash despite heavy security measures. He pointed out the irony of attempts to create religious division in a state known for its unity. He said, “The implications of this incident are very serious in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Many Bhandari leaders have openly declared their disillusionment with the BJP, indicating a possible change in political allegiances.”
The Bhandari community, a significant part of Goa’s Hindu population, has considerable influence on election results. With their voting power, they have the ability to turn the tide against any political party. The BJP’s dismissive attitude towards the concerns of the Bhandari community and its mishandling of the situation in Sanquelim has led to a wave of discontent, which is significant. Lok Sabha ElectionsIt may give a blow to the party’s support before the elections.
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