July 17, 2026, Panaji: Goa Pradesh Congress Committee President Girish Chodankar has expressed deep concern over the announcement made by Param Pujya Datta Puri Datta Samartha Maharaj (Juna Akhada) that he is prepared to resort to self-immolation if justice continues to be denied to the Karpur Sarvan villagers. Calling the development a serious indictment of the BJP government’s insensitive and arrogant approach, Chodankar said no democratic government should ever allow a situation to deteriorate to such a desperate level.
“The very fact that a respected religious leader has felt compelled to announce such an extreme step reflects the complete collapse of the BJP government’s responsiveness towards the genuine grievances of the people. This is not merely a protest; it is a desperate cry for justice that the government cannot afford to ignore,” Chodankar said.
He strongly urged Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to immediately break his silence, personally intervene in the matter, initiate meaningful dialogue with the Karpur Sarvan villagers, and ensure that their legitimate concerns are addressed without any further delay.
“The BJP government has perfected the art of ignoring people’s voices until they are pushed to the brink. Governance cannot be reduced to public relations, photo opportunities, and empty assurances while citizens are forced into extreme forms of protest. The Chief Minister must demonstrate leadership, not indifference,” Chodankar stated.
The GPCC President appealed to Param Pujya Datta Puri Datta Samartha Maharaj not to take any extreme step, emphasizing that every life is precious and that democratic dialogue must prevail over tragedy.
“The Congress Party stands firmly with the people in their peaceful struggle for justice. We call upon the government to act responsibly and urgently before this crisis escalates any further. If any unfortunate incident occurs due to the government’s continued inaction, the BJP government alone will bear the moral and political responsibility,” Chodankar asserted.
Concluding his appeal, Chodankar said, “This is not the time for political arrogance or administrative apathy. It is the time for compassion, dialogue, and justice. The government must act immediately to protect lives, uphold justice, and restore the people’s faith in democracy.”
