Panaji: Social activist Yogesh Govekar alias “Mogembo” has strongly condemned the statement made by former Calangute Sarpanch Shawn Martins allegedly supporting app-based taxi services while criticizing local taxi operators in Goa.Govekar stated that thousands of Goan families are dependent on the traditional taxi business for their livelihood and any attempt to undermine local taxi owners in favour of app-based companies would directly affect the economic interests of Goans.He further said that instead of targeting local taxi operators, efforts should be made to resolve issues through dialogue and reforms that protect both tourists and the livelihood of Goan taxi owners.Govekar also warned that promoting outside app-based taxi models without safeguarding local interests could lead to unemployment and financial instability among traditional taxi operators across the state.He appealed to political leaders and public representatives to act responsibly while making statements on sensitive livelihood-related issues and urged the government to protect the interests of local taxi owners.