Kejriwal Announces 'Margay Mukti Yatra' Against Inflation in Goa from Nov 26

Panaji: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday announced the 'Margay Mukti Yatra' (freedom from inflation march) across Goa from November 26 to December 19 to highlight the rising prices in the BJP-ruled state.

Addressing a press conference, Kejriwal alleged that the cost of household essentials, including bread, petrol, electricity, rent and vegetables, had increased substantially in the 15 years of BJP rule while people's incomes had not kept pace.

AAP leader Atishi, the party's Goa unit chief Valmiki Naik and others were present at the press conference.

"Over the last 15 years, household expenses have increased at least three to four times, but salaries and incomes have remained more or less the same. People are finding it increasingly difficult to run their households," Kejriwal said, announcing the campaign ahead of next year's assembly polls.

The former Delhi chief minister blamed corruption and political horse-trading for the situation. Corruption linked to land conversions under "Section 39A" was also among the reasons, he said. Section 39A of the Goa Town and Country Planning Act allows the Chief Town Planner to modify land-use zoning for private plots.

"All the money spent on buying MLAs has to be recovered, and the burden is ultimately borne by the common people through the rising cost of essential things," the AAP leader alleged.

Kejriwal further said the yatra would allow people to share their experiences of inflation and the difficulties they face in managing household expenses.

The march will begin on November 26, observed as Constitution Day, and conclude on December 19, Goa Liberation Day, he said.

The AAP would also highlight its 'Aamchi Gonayak Guarantee', comprising six guarantees, five of which directly address the issue of inflation, Kejriwal said.

The implementation of these guarantees could help each household save at least Rs 15,000 per month, he said, noting the promise of Rs 3,000 monthly assistance and free bus travel for women.

The focus during next year's Goa Assembly elections should be the people's problems, dreams and aspirations, Kejriwal said.