इंग्लिश खबर
Panchayat Threatens Citizens Instead of solving Garbage Issue; AAP Demands Accountability*
*“Why should Citizens Pay Taxes When Basic Services Are Failing?” – Sandesh Teleikar-Dessai*
*“Goondagiri with people of Ponda Will Not Be Tolerated; AAP Will Stand with the People” – Teleikar-Dessai*
*”Panchayat Must Serve the People, Not Threaten Them for Raising Genuine Civic Concerns – Sunil Singnapurkar*
Goa Khabar:Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Goa, led by Senior Vice President Sandesh Teleikar-Dessai along with Vice President Sunil and karyakartas Vijayalakshmi, Gautam Naik, and Akshay, held a press conference in Ponda highlighting serious civic issues in the Curti-Khandepar Panchayat.
AAP workers conducted a ground inspection and documented the condition of the area, revealing widespread garbage mismanagement and open drainage. Teleikar-Dessai stated that muddy water mixing with sewage in open drains is creating a major health hazard, while garbage remains unattended across several locations.
“Such conditions raise serious questions about how the Panchayat is functioning,” he said, adding that no visible work appears to have been done for over a year.
He also highlighted alleged intimidation of residents. Locals who raised concerns were reportedly served notices warning of action, and a resident who spoke to the media was taken into custody. “Instead of solving problems, they are trying to silence citizens. This will not be tolerated,” he said.
Teleikar-Dessai pointed out that open drains pose serious safety risks. “Children, elderly citizens, and even vehicles are at risk due to these large, uncovered drains,” he said.
Questioning accountability, he asked, “People are paying garbage tax and house tax. Where is the system for daily garbage collection? Where is the money going?”
AAP has requested a meeting with the Sarpanch and Panch members and will visit the Panchayat on Monday at 12 noon. “We are not issuing orders. We are Aam Aadmi. We are requesting a discussion to understand the issues and find solutions,” he said, adding that AAP is also ready to extend support if there are genuine administrative challenges.
Responding to recent incidents, Teleikar-Dessai said that attempts to suppress voices reflect a failure of governance. “Many elected representatives have forgotten their responsibilities. Politics has become about power, while basic issues like drainage and waterways remain neglected,” he said.
He also criticised the government for focusing on campaigning instead of governance. “The entire machinery is being used for political expansion while people’s daily issues are ignored,” he said.
Highlighting AAP’s work, he said the party has been organising medical camps across Ponda. “Today, a specialised medical camp at Panorama Hotel has already seen over 450 beneficiaries,” he added.
On being asked about a stronger approach, Teleikar-Dessai said, “We are not just highlighting problems, we have solutions. Garbage management and drainage maintenance are basic responsibilities. Authorities must act.”
The Aam Aadmi Party reaffirmed its commitment to stand with the people of Ponda. “There is no need to fear. We will stand with every citizen and fight for their rights,” he assured.
