In a scathing critique of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's administration in Goa, Aam Aadmi Party national convener Arvind Kejriwal has positioned his party as a viable alternative, citing widespread dissatisfaction with current governance. During his recent visits to Calangute and Ponda, Kejriwal articulated a vision for transformative change, focusing particularly on healthcare and basic amenities.
Healthcare Crisis in Government Hospitals
Kejriwal's assessment of Goa's medical infrastructure paints a grim picture. After inspecting a prominent government hospital in Ponda, he expressed dismay at the substandard conditions. "The medical facilities there are substandard, with few doctors, fewer facilities and broken machinery," he remarked. This situation forces patients with serious illnesses to be referred to the Goa Medical College, where bed shortages compel many to sleep on stretchers on the floor. Kejriwal emphasized that this is not an isolated issue but a pervasive problem across government hospitals in the state.
Promising Comprehensive Health Insurance
In response to this healthcare deficit, Kejriwal announced a bold proposal. He declared that if AAP forms the government in Goa, it would implement a medical insurance scheme providing Rs 10 lakh coverage for all residents, mirroring the successful initiative in Punjab. This scheme would be accessible to every family in Goa, benefiting approximately 3.5 lakh households. "In Punjab, we have provided medical facilities which can be availed by both rich and poor," Kejriwal stated, challenging the historical performance of both BJP and Congress in addressing healthcare needs.
Broader Governance Failures
Beyond healthcare, Kejriwal highlighted multiple areas where the BJP government has allegedly faltered. He pointed to rising unemployment as a major concern, coupled with rampant corruption and an increase in crime rates. "BJP govt has failed on all fronts," he asserted, noting that many Goans still lack basic facilities. During his interactions with residents, he heard numerous complaints about issues such as water scarcity and inadequate sewage systems, underscoring the government's neglect of fundamental infrastructure.
Economic Concerns and Political Opportunity
Kejriwal also criticized the recent Union Budget, warning that it could trigger a surge in inflation and further marginalize Goa. He argued that the state has been completely ignored in national economic planning, exacerbating local hardships. In a bid to mobilize support, he referenced the upcoming byelection in Ponda, presenting it as a crucial opportunity for voters to elect an AAP MLA and initiate meaningful change. "If a party like ours could achieve this in 10 years, why couldn't BJP or Congress do it in the past?" he questioned, positioning AAP as a proactive and effective alternative.
Cultural Engagements and Community Outreach
During his visit, Kejriwal engaged in cultural and religious activities to connect with the diverse populace of Goa. In Calangute, he offered prayers at St. Alex Church for the well-being of Goans, while in Ponda, he visited the Shree Shantadurga temple at Kavlem. These gestures were aimed at fostering unity and demonstrating AAP's commitment to all communities in the state.
Overall, Kejriwal's message was clear: AAP is emerging as a strong contender to address Goa's pressing issues, from healthcare and unemployment to corruption and infrastructure, offering a fresh political direction for the state's future.
