An RTI activist in Goa has launched an indefinite Hunger strike arguing the ailing CM Manohar Parrikar to resign from the post of Chief Minister. Activist named, Ranjan Ghate started his hunger strike on Friday in historic Azad Maidan of Panaji, Goa. The hunger strike soon attracted opposition, and the Indian National Congress was quick to respond and extended its support to the RTI Activist agitation. Many Political leaders visited Ghate on Sunday to extend their support.
While talking to a media person, RTI Activist Ghate said,I am on the hunger strike for the people of the state who has witnessed no-governance since nine months because of the health issues of sitting CM Parrikar. He should immediately step down from his position to facilitate the smooth administrative functions in the BJP ruled state’. He further warned the Government that he will not end his indefinite strike till the demands are met.
Apart from the major opposition Congress, BJP ally Shiv Sena, Goa Suraksha Manch (GSM), and many other NGOs also supported the strike.
Talking to a reporter after meeting the Ghate on Sunday, INC Law Maker Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco targeted the ruling party and said, ‘BJP Should stop praising him for signing the document despite being ill. Asking the resigning of the CM, he added, ‘ A Politician should call off his days when he can’t function mentally and physically, and close the chapter’. He accused him of no governance in the state
CM Parrikar, 62, is currently recuperating in his residence in Panaji since October 14 after returning from AIMS, New Delhi, where he underwent a treatment of his pancreatic ailment.
Goa Suraksha Manch (GSM) Chief, Subhash Velingkar, after meeting Ranjan Ghate, said the activist is fighting for a genuine cause. “Actually entire Goa should have risen over the issue. But Goans are tolerant,” he said. “They have done such injustice to everyone. Even God will not pardon them. Ghate is representing aspiration of all (non-BJP) parties,” Velingkar said.
Goa Shiv Sena spokesman Milind Gawas maintained the party had said four months ago that the state administration has come to a standstill.
Major Opposition Congress on Saturday demanded the Governor Mridula Sinha to summon a special assembly session and ask the BJP led Government to prove its majority in the house.