Mahila Congress calls for change in Ponda, urges voters to elect Dr Ketan Bhatikar
Ponda: The Mahila Congress on Tuesday urged people of Ponda to vote for change and elect Congress candidate Dr Ketan Bhatikar for the upcoming bypoll on April 9.
Addressing a press conference at the Congress office in Ponda, the party launched a scathing attack on the ruling BJP government, accusing it of failing to maintain law and order and ensuring the safety of women in the state.
The briefing was addressed by Mahila Congress President Dr Pratiksha Khalap, alongside All India Mahila Congress (AIMC) General Secretary and Goa Incharge Shilpa Arora, AIMC Secretary and Goa Co-Incharge Adv Prajyoti Handore, Wilma Pereira, Ponda mahila block president, and Shirley Dias, Ponda mahila general secretary
Arora said that the BJP government has completely failed in its fundamental responsibility to ensure safety, dignity, and justice, particularly for women.
“In 2025, more than 2,050 crimes were registered in the state. On average, two murders and nine rape cases are reported every month. Crimes against women have increased from 288 in 2023 to 365 in 2024—almost one every single day. There were 106 rape cases in 2024, with a significant number of victims being minors. Recent incidents involving the exploitation of minor girls have shocked society and exposed serious failures of law enforcement,” she said.
Arora also said that the law and order situation in Goa has deteriorated to an alarming level.
“The tragic death of a young boy due to a drug overdose during a public event raises serious questions about governance and the functioning of the police. The drug menace is spreading rapidly across Goa. Drugs are easily accessible, destroying the future of our youth, while the administration continues to remain a silent spectator,” Arora said.
Urging women, youth, and responsible citizens of the state to rise against what she termed a corrupt and insensitive government, she said, “This election is not just political—it is a fight for dignity, safety, and justice. We appeal to the people of Ponda to stand with a leader who has always stood with you. Vote for Ketan. Vote for Congress on 9th April. Let Ponda lead the Shankhnaad for change and begin the victory march that will transform Goa.”
Dr Khalap said that Ponda deserves an MLA who will actively resolve the issues of the constituency.
“I am also deeply concerned about the way welfare schemes are being handled. A few months back, the Griha Aadhar scheme was stopped for two to three months, and then suddenly resumed with messages claiming government outreach. In Ponda, the government sent personal messages to all ladies a month back and then asked the ladies to come to Rajiv Gandhi Kala Mandir in Ponda to avail the Griha Aadhar scheme by calling it ‘sarkar tumchya dari’. I strongly believe that this is an attempt to take advantage of the helplessness of poor families for political mileage. A government that exploits people’s vulnerability cannot be trusted. I urge the women not to fall prey to the assurances made by the BJP. I appeal to the people of Ponda, especially my sisters, to stay alert and not fall for such tactics. Do not place your trust in a government that has repeatedly failed you. This money is used by poor beneficiaries for medical and household expenses,” Khalap said.
“Ponda does not have good roads, a good hospital, nor proper water supply. Congress has given the voters a committed candidate in Dr Ketan Bhatikar, who is always accessible to the people, sincere and hardworking. For years, he has worked selflessly for the people. During our campaign, we have received overwhelming support, and I have personally heard countless stories from citizens about how he has helped them in times of need—be it during accidents or other emergencies. Ponda deserves an MLA who is accessible at any time. We need a representative who will resolve the issues of Ponda. I urge the people of Ponda to think carefully and vote wisely for a better, safer, and more secure future for Goa. I urge voters to press number one and vote for the ‘Hand’ symbol to ensure Dr Ketan Bhatikar’s victory by a huge margin.”
Khalap also condemned recent statements made by Union Minister Shripad Naik against Bhatikar and said that it does not suit his stature.
“I am also surprised by the recent statements made by Union Minister Shripad Naik. Before pointing fingers at our candidate, I believe he should first reflect on his own party’s candidate and his history. How many MLAs and ministers in the current BJP cabinet are truly loyal to their ideology? How many have come from other parties into the BJP? And how many times the current BJP candidate has changed parties. And when major issues concerning Goa—including a scandal that shook the entire nation—we have not heard any strong statement or voice raised at the national level by the 6-term MP who is now making statements against our candidate. The people of Goa deserve representation, and they deserve to be heard,” Khalap said.
Loading ...