MARGAO: The Goa Pradesh Congress Committee’s (GPCC) Goy Rakhonn Yatra concluded in Margao on Sunday, with Rahul Gandhi launching a sharp attack on the BJP government over land-related decisions, unemployment, alleged corruption and environmental concerns.
Addressing a large gathering, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha said Goa belonged to its people and not to the Chief Minister or BJP ministers. He called for the protection of Goa’s land, culture, environment and natural resources, while questioning the lack of adequate employment opportunities for local youth.
Gandhi also criticised what he described as the BJP’s preference for wealthy industrialists and corporate interests over ordinary Goans. He raised concerns over democratic institutions and reiterated his allegations of electoral irregularities, calling for greater accountability and transparency.
Appealing to voters ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, Gandhi urged Goans to give Congress a full majority, promising accountable governance and a focus on public welfare.
GPCC President Girish Chodankar criticised the government over alleged corruption, land conversions, unemployment and law-and-order concerns. He placed Goa’s liabilities at approximately ₹50,000 crore and demanded a white paper on the state’s finances. He also raised questions about the Chief Minister’s assets and the alleged cash-for-jobs scam.
Leader of the Opposition Yuri Alemao invoked Goa’s historic Opinion Poll movement, urging people to unite to protect the state’s identity and heritage. He accused the BJP government of taking decisions that threaten local communities.
The concluding programme also saw the launch of the ‘Gaon Rakhonn Abhiyan’, aimed at extending Congress’s campaign to protect Goa’s villages, land, environment, culture and traditional way of life.
Congress leaders called on party workers and citizens to sustain the campaign across all 40 Assembly constituencies and mobilise public support ahead of the 2027 elections. The event was attended by senior Congress leaders, elected representatives, Revolutionary Goans Party (RGP) representatives, party workers and supporters.
