Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Jul 27: The Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led state government on Saturday, accusing it of presiding over a crumbling administration marked by inflated power data, unfulfilled infrastructure promises, and a disturbing rise in crime.

GPCC President Amit Patkar, addressing a press conference alongside senior party leaders, cited revelations from the ongoing monsoon session of the Goa Legislative Assembly as evidence of “chaotic, anti-people, and crony-driven governance” under Chief Minister Pramod Sawant.

Patkar alleged that the Power Department submitted “inflated and inconsistent” figures in response to Legislative Assembly Questions (LAQs), reflecting a broader lack of transparency and planning. “Instead of fixing revenue leakages, the government is proposing steep power tariff hikes that will hit ordinary Goans the hardest,” he warned.

The Congress leader also highlighted what he called “blatant misuse” of domestic electricity slabs by commercial operators such as homestays, villas, and rental apartments. “While citizens are paying more, these establishments are running businesses on subsidized domestic rates with impunity,” Patkar said.

On the health infrastructure front, Patkar pointed to the government's failure to float a Phase II tender for Tuem Hospital, rendering the long-promised facility non-operational. “The project remains stuck in limbo despite tall promises,” he said.

Turning to public infrastructure, Patkar took aim at the government’s failure to penalize errant road contractors. “Despite dangerous potholes and crumbling roads, not a single contractor has been blacklisted,” he noted.

He also expressed alarm over the spike in crime, accusing the government of being in denial. “From murders and thefts to drug rackets and sexual assaults, Goa is witnessing a clear breakdown of law and order,” he said, adding that CM Sawant’s admission of a “marginal” crime increase was a gross understatement of the situation.

“The Home Minister [Sawant] is missing in action while Goa sinks into lawlessness,” he stated.

The Congress demanded an immediate rollback of the proposed power tariff hike and a strict crackdown on the misuse of domestic power for commercial operations, calling on the government to restore accountability and prioritize the safety and welfare of its citizens.