BJP stands for 12% ST reservation in House: CM

MARGAO: Goa chief minister Laxmikant Parsekar on Sunday assured the scheduled tribe (ST) community that his government will “stand solidly” behind them in pursuit of their demand for 12% reservation in the state assembly.
Speaking at the convention of ST party workers organized by the BJP ST Morcha at Margao, Parsekar said though the delimitation commission looking into the issue of reservations is unlikely to be formed before 2020, the demand for reservation of seats for STs in the state assembly cannot be ignored.“Not only will we try to fulfil your demand, but will stand behind you with all our might in pursuit of your demand,” said Parsekar.
Earlier a resolution in support of the demand was unanimously passed at the meeting. Another resolution demanding demarcation of ST-dominated panchayats or urban bodies as ‘scheduled areas’ as provided in the statute was also adopted at the meeting. The meeting also passed a resolution commending the state government for implementation of various welfare schemes for the ST community.
“As many as 12 of the 24 schemes introduced by this government are aimed at facilitating education among ST community. The purpose of all these schemes is to bridge the gap between the scheduled tribes and other communities. All of us should strive towards making the scheduled tribes a self-sufficient, self-reliant and a proud community,” said Parsekar.
South Goa MP Narendra Sawaikar, who also addressed the convention, assured of his assistance at the Centre in furtherance of their demands. Industries minister Mahadev Naik, Sanvordem MLA Ganesh Gaonkar, Sanguem MLA Subhash Phal Dessai, BJP state president Vinay Tendulkar and Vice-President Prakash Velip were among those who addressed the gathering.