Kejriwal ditches protocol, stays at friend’s house in Taleigao

Panaji/Ponda: Living up to the image of an aam admi, Delhi chief minister and AAP national convenor, Arvind Kejriwal, is staying at a flat of one of the local AAP leader in Taleigao, near Panaji, during his two day visit to Goa.
As a protocol, visiting political dignitaries like Union ministers and state chief ministers stay at Raj Bhavan being state guests; Kejriwal did not avail of the official privilege. He stayed at AAP national executive, Dinesh Waghela’s residence, said a source.
His food was also simple. While visitors to Goa swear by the fish, curry and rice, Kejriwal’s meals consisted of dal, chawal and roti, he being a vegetarian.
One not to make fuss when it comes to protocol, he mingled and interacted with youth, people of the fishing community in Vasco, and hoteliers and shack operators in Calangute.
The AAP is keen to replicate its success mantra in Goa, which goes to polls in early 2017 along with UP, Manipur, Uttarakhand and Punjab. The party has started canvassing in the state after an impressive public meeting by Kejriwal last month.
Earlier in the afternoon, on his way to Ponda, he visited Brahmeshanand Swami Maharaj, Kundaim. In an half hour chat, Kejriwal told Brahmeshanand Swami about AAP’s plan for Goa with greater emphasis on making Goa drug free.
Bhrahmeshanand Swami Maharaj told Kejriwal that the youth are attracted to AAP, said an AAP activist who was present at the meeting. Kundaim mutt runs spiritual programmes for alcoholics. Many have given up their drinking habits after receiving initiation.
Before flying back to Delhi on Thursday, Kejriwal is scheduled to meet Archbishop of Goa, Filipe Neri Ferrao, to explain his party’s stand on various issues concerning the state.