Daijiworld Media Network - Old Goa
Old Goa, Jul 13: In a sharp rebuttal to former MLA Francisco Silveira’s criticism, St Andre MLA Viresh Borkar on Friday defended his performance, asserting that the development carried out during his three-year tenure far exceeded the progress made during Silveira’s two-decade-long stint.
Speaking at a press conference in Panaji, Borkar highlighted improvements in basic infrastructure—particularly in roads, electricity, and water supply—in villages like Goa Velha, Batim, Siridao, and Curca, which he said had long suffered from neglect.
“These areas lacked even the basics. Since taking office, I made sure no one was left behind,” Borkar said, taking direct aim at his predecessor’s legacy.
Responding to Silveira’s recent remarks that he had to approach the Chief Minister for private jobs, Borkar questioned the logic:
“Has governance fallen to a level where the CM is now needed for private employment? It’s absurd,” he said, accusing Silveira of spreading blatant misinformation.
He also criticized what he termed as "wasteful projects" undertaken during Silveira’s time, pointing to the Dongrim-Mandur bridge, which he called “a bridge to nowhere.”
Borkar didn’t stop there. He also addressed allegations from former Azossim-Mandur sarpanch Ajit Bacal, who accused him of favoring a Delhi-based party with EHN (Excise and Hospitality No Objection) clearances and of lobbying for personal family matters.
Refuting the charges, Borkar said, “It was during Bacal’s own tenure as sarpanch that the Delhi party approached the panchayat. The record speaks for itself.” He further referenced controversies that had unfolded under Bacal’s leadership, suggesting a pattern of mismanagement.
Joining Borkar at the press meet, panchayat members from Batim and Agassaim, along with party supporters, voiced strong support for the RGP MLA and condemned attempts to undermine his work.
The public clash reflects growing political tension in St Andre, as local leaders spar over development claims and accountability.