Special status cannot be given to Goa: Laxmikant Parsekar

Notably, the BJP in its 2012 election manifesto promised special status to the state

Goa Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar on Monday ruled out the possibility of the state getting a special category status.

"Special status cannot be given to Goa as the state tops in all the fronts," Parsekar said addressing the party's women's convention here.

"Special status is given to those states which have remained backwards," he said.

Notably, the BJP had in its 2012 election manifesto promised special status to the state.

Goa has been demanding a special status to preserve its culture and heritage as against the financial powers (through special status) sought by other states.

Earlier, the then Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar had even decided to lead an all-party delegation to Delhi demanding special status to the state.

Meanwhile, Parsekar on Monday rubbished the allegations against his government of harbouring the casino culture.

"All the six casinos in river Mandovi are a gift to Goa from the erstwhile Congress government. Our government has not given any permission to casinos," he said.