UTAA warns of stir if Gaude dropped from cabinet

Ponda: The United Tribal Association Alliance (UTAA) on Friday warned of possible statewide unrest if Sports Minister Govind Gaude is dropped from the cabinet, stating that his recent controversial remarks reflected the frustration of a neglected tribal community and were directed at the inefficiency of the Tribal Welfare Department, not the Chief Minister.

Speaking at a public meeting at Farmagudi, Ponda, called in support of Gaude, UTAA leaders said BJP’s rise in Goa was largely due to the UTAA movement, and that he played a key role in securing the Chief Minister’s post for Pramod Sawant.

“Gaude never criticised the Chief Minister. His frustration was directed at tribal welfare officials who have failed to fulfil our demands despite multiple follow-ups,” said general secretary Durgadas Gaude.

He urged the CM to take action against erring officials rather than targeting the minister.

Leaders unanimously criticised the Tribal Welfare Department, blaming it for the lack of effective implementation of schemes and the marginalisation of tribal issues.

The meeting was attended by a large crowd and saw participation from UTAA president Prakash Velip, Durgadas, working president Vishwas Gaude, Dr Uday Gaonkar, youth leader Yugank Naik and others.

Velip said that UTAA reserves the right to determine its platform and messaging. “The government cannot dictate terms to us. We’ve fought hard for tribal rights and will continue to do so,” he said, adding that Gaude’s statements were a reflection of tribal sentiment and should not be misinterpreted.

Naik said BJP had gained power in Goa by capitalising on the UTAA movement and that Gaude had been instrumental in this process. “BJP used Gaude for its benefit. The use-and-throw policy won’t work. Gaude represents not just tribals but the wider Bahujan community,” he said, criticising the focus on Gaude’s remarks while more pressing state issues remain unresolved.

Vishwas said Gaude’s political rise had unsettled some, leading to conspiracies against him. He praised the minister’s contributions and said, “Gaude played a major role in getting the CM’s post for Sawant. UTAA stands firmly behind him.”

Gaonkar said the tribal community continues to struggle for its rights.

“Despite being sons of the soil, we are still fighting for our rights. Are our votes being wasted? Our patience is wearing thin,” he said.