BJP upset over advise

Two statements printed across cheap, coloured paper have Goa politicians, particularly those from the BJP, in froth.

Two statements printed across cheap, coloured paper have Goa politicians, particularly those from the BJP, in froth. Issued by the Church's Diocesan Service Centre's Sub-Committee For Social Action over the last fortnight, neither names any party or politician. They merely point to the unhealthy trends creeping into the polity.

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The first questions the "India Shining" claims and contrasts it against the reality of poverty. The second urges citizens to go out and vote, and asks them to "vote for social justice".

Titled Vote We Must, the second statement urges citizens to "select" candidates who are "honest, transparent and accountable to the voters" and not "obsessed by narrow, parochial biases like caste and creed".

Suitable parties, it said, should be "democratic in thinking, attitude and action; respect the freedom of citizens of India to worship, express, protect, preserve and promote their culture; and be open to participatory governance".

The ruling BJP — which holds both the Lok Sabha seats from this tiny state — is not amused.

In 1999, the Congress was similarly upset by the Church's pre-electoral stance denouncing corruption and defections.