Panaji, Feb 18 (NationPress) Utpal Parrikar, the son of the late former Chief Minister of Goa, Manohar Parrikar, has unveiled his initiative ‘Ami Panjekar’ (We Panjimkars), an independent citizens' forum focused on addressing civic issues in the upcoming Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) elections. He clarified that this initiative is not intended to directly confront the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Parrikar explained that the platform unites individuals from various political backgrounds, emphasizing that it prioritizes local civic matters over party politics.

“No, we have established a panel called Ami Panjekar, and it is not a political contest. This is an independent forum,” Parrikar stated, addressing inquiries regarding his initiative's relationship with the BJP.

He noted that the group includes members with different political affiliations who have positively impacted the development of Panaji and are dedicated to tackling local issues through collaborative civic engagement.

“We are moving forward with a team of independent individuals. Their political ties vary – I belong to one party, while another senior member comes from a different one. That’s the essence of our approach,” he added, underlining the inclusive character of the panel.

Parrikar reiterated that his mission is to enhance public welfare and improve civic administration in Panaji. “Technically, I am not part of the BJP. I aim to provide something beneficial to the citizens,” he remarked.

Reinforcing the independent nature of the initiative, he emphasized, “This is related to the elections; it is neither under nor above any political party. It is independent. Many esteemed individuals accompany me who have made positive contributions to Panjim, some of whom have varied political backgrounds.”

Focusing on civic issues like casino operations and waste management, Parrikar stated these matters fall within the municipal body's jurisdiction and will be addressed through the relevant institutional mechanisms.

“Any issues, whether regarding casinos or garbage, come under the CCP's purview. We will advocate and engage in dialogue to resolve them within the CCP framework,” he affirmed.

The initiative arises ahead of the CCP elections, where Parrikar and his team present the Ami Panjekar panel as an independent alternative for the municipal polls. He confirmed plans to nominate candidates across all 30 wards and has been actively engaging with voters, former corporators, and potential candidates to garner support for the initiative.

Previously, Parrikar ran as an independent candidate for the Panaji Assembly seat in the 2022 Goa Assembly elections after being denied a BJP ticket, ultimately losing to Revenue Minister Atanasio ‘Babush’ Monserrate.

Sources reveal that Parrikar has been consulting various stakeholders to establish a broad-based platform while maintaining the panel's independent identity. He has also emphasized the necessity to prevent vote fragmentation during the civic elections.

Meanwhile, Revenue Minister Atanasio Monserrate expressed confidence in his panel's prospects in the CCP elections, noting that candidates have been finalized after discussions with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and party leadership.

Parrikar criticized the current civic administration for not adequately reflecting the concerns of local residents, stressing the importance of increased public participation in decision-making.

The CCP elections are set to take place on March 11, with counting scheduled for March 13.