Margao, May 19, 2026: GFP President Vijai Sardesai today condemned the filing of police complaints by BJP workers against activist Swapnesh Sherlekar over his alleged remarks, calling it a deliberate attempt to intimidate dissent and silence opposition voices ahead of the elections.

“Instigating party cadres to file cases against activists over remarks, especially in an election year, reeks of intolerance and intimidation aimed at silencing the opposition,” Sardesai said.

“This reflects a troubling trend seen in BJP-ruled states that appear intent on creating an ‘Opposition-Mukt Goa.’ Democracy cannot thrive without dissent, and voices of opposition must not be cowed into silence.”

Sardesai asserted that such tactics have no place in a democratic society and called for an end to the misuse of the legal system to suppress free speech.