Panaji:
Reacting strongly to the interim order restraining Prakash Velip from functioning as President of the United Tribal Associations Alliance (UTAA) and handling its financial affairs, former Minister and prominent leader Govind Gaude on Tuesday issued a defiant statement condemning what he termed as an attempt to silence the Bahujan Samaj.
“If anyone is conspiring to suppress the voice of the Bahujan Samaj, they should stop or they’ll face the consequences themselves,” Gaude warned, calling on community members to stand united. “Bring the Registrar to the temple; the members of UTAA will also come. And I repeat, take out a morcha to the residence of Prakash Velip. This is my challenge to them,” he declared.
Gaude’s comments come amid rising tension within the tribal leadership following the legal order against Velip. Emphasizing dignity and self-respect, he said, “Rather than becoming slaves, we must uphold our self-respect and dignity.”
The political atmosphere around UTAA has intensified, with Gaude’s statement adding a new dimension to the ongoing power struggle. The situation is being closely monitored as community sentiments continue to build.
Officials have yet to respond to Gaude’s statement or announce any further legal developments in the case.
