From Power Distribution to Political Contributions? BJP Must Tell Goans the Truth: Amarnath Panjikar

Goa Khabar: Congress leader Amarnath Panjikar today demanded that the BJP Government come clean over serious questions being raised about the proposed entry of Tata Power into Goa’s electricity distribution sector after an Electricity Department engineer allegedly linked the move to election funding.

“This is no longer merely a debate on electricity distribution. It has become a matter of public trust, transparency and political accountability. When an Electricity Department engineer himself allegedly speaks about election funding in connection with a major policy decision, the BJP Government cannot dismiss it with silence. The people of Goa deserve answers,” Panjikar said.

Panjikar questioned why Goa has suddenly become the destination for Tata Power’s expansion after the company reportedly withdrew its power distribution licence application in Karnataka following strong opposition. “What makes Goa so special? Is this proposal being driven by public interest, or are there other considerations that the Government is reluctant to disclose? The BJP owes an honest explanation to every Goan,” he said.

He asserted that electricity is an essential public service and not a commodity to be used for political or corporate interests. “The BJP Government must explain whether this move is aimed at improving services or at opening the door for private interests at the cost of consumers. Public utilities cannot become instruments for political convenience.”

Panjikar said the alleged remarks attributed to the Electricity Department engineer have raised serious concerns that cannot be brushed under the carpet. “If an officer connected with the department is raising questions about election funding, it is the Chief Minister’s responsibility to ensure complete transparency. The Government cannot pretend that nothing has happened.”

He demanded that Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant immediately place all files, correspondence, proposals and communications relating to Tata Power’s proposed entry into the public domain and clarify the exact role played by the Government in facilitating the process.

“If the BJP Government has nothing to hide, it should welcome an independent inquiry into the entire matter. Truth has nothing to fear from scrutiny. However, silence and secrecy will only strengthen public suspicion and erode people’s faith in the Government,” Panjikar asserted.

“The BJP must remember that Goa is not for sale. The State’s resources, institutions and public utilities belong to the people of Goa—not to powerful corporate interests or political financiers. Congress will continue to fight against every attempt to compromise Goa’s interests and will ensure that those in power are held accountable. The people of Goa deserve governance based on transparency, integrity and public interest—not on unanswered questions and backroom deals,” Panjikar concluded.