Goa polls: Unperturbed BJP stands firm with Parrikar amid 'bribery' remark storm

Porvoram, (Goa), [India], Feb. 1(ANI): The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has extended its full support to Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, who is currently in a storm over his alleged 'bribery' remarks in a poll rally. Downplaying opposition's claims of Parrikar leading a 'corrupt army', Senior BJP leader and Union Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore expressed his confidence of Parrikar emerging unscathed from the controversy. "We are confident of ourselves as we talk about the public and about development. But if they (Opposition) are talking about us, then you can judge yourself who is more popular and who is ruling the hearts of the public," Rathore told ANI here. Further appreciating Parrikar's intuitiveness and initiatives, he added that the public knows his dedication towards the country and said, "When he took office in the Union Government he implemented 'One Rank One Pension' in 18 months. When surgical strikes took place, he was also standing with them, so he has always played a significant role in the decision making." Confident of BJP winning two-third of majority in the Goa assembly elections scheduled in February, Rathore asserted the voters know the party's work at the Centre would translate in the state as well, and are thus standing in support of BJP this time. "I went to two constituencies and spoke to everyone. I am confident that we will rule this time. The entire country is writhing in an economic crisis, but Goa is flourishing, in such a time it is very instrumental for Goa that some investment flows in and this feat is only possible if an honest government comes in power," Rathore stated. Earlier, the Chief Electoral Officer of Goa received a complaint against Parrikar for allegedly inciting people to accept bribes from other parties but vote in favour of BJP. The complaint has been filed by Goa Forward Party spokesperson Durgadas Kamat. Parrikar was heard saying "if someone takes out a rally tomorrow and you take Rs 500-600 to go with him, there is nothing wrong in that. But make sure, you vote only for the lotus (BJP's symbol)." Following Defence Minister and probable Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate for Goa assembly elections, Manohar Parrikar's alleged 'bribe' remarks in a poll rally, the Chief Electoral Officer of Goa on Tuesday confirmed that an enquiry is on, following which the report would be sent to the Election Commission. However, Parrikar on Monday shunned the accusation of violating model code of conduct and said, "Let the Election Commission investigate." (ANI)