Congress criticizes Goa government for women's safety issues

Congress officials have criticized Goa's Chief Minister Pramod Sawant for not doing enough to protect women in the state. Alka Lamba, who leads the All India Mahila Congress, stated that if conditions do not improve, the party will organize protests and block government offices. Lamba highlighted that crimes against women are rising in Goa and accused the ruling BJP of failing to implement a 33% reservation for women in politics. She described this inaction as a betrayal by the “double engine government.” Lamba also claimed that the BJP is protecting criminals and misusing government funds. She noted that a significant portion of the money from the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao scheme is being spent on advertisements instead of helping girls. Since last September, 7,000 women have joined Congress's women's wing in Goa. The newly appointed leader of this wing, Pratiksha Khalap, announced plans to strengthen the party's presence in all areas of the state. She emphasized the importance of women’s involvement in upcoming local elections in December and expressed hope that by the 2027 assembly elections, the Modi government will implement the 33% reservation for women. Meanwhile, Manickrao Thakre, who oversees Congress in Goa, urged party members to concentrate on elections rather than engage in internal disputes.