AAP steps up tribal outreach at Margao

Margao: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is making a strategic push to win over tribal communities in the state as it prepares for the 2027 assembly elections, warning against BJP’s divisive political tactics.On Sunday, AAP inducted a group of tribal members into its fold during an event in Margao, in an effort to make inroads into tribals-dominated constituencies. The ceremony saw Vinay Velip, president of Aadi Brigade, a prominent tribal community organisation, join AAP along with his supporters.“BJP govt has exploited the tribal community by taking them for granted and using them for political gains,” said AAP state president Amit Palekar, during the ceremony.Palekar alleged that ST representatives in the assembly, including those in govt, failed to deliver for their communities. “Apart from working to serve their personal interests, they did nothing for the community,” he said.The AAP leader cautioned tribal communities that BJP is dividing tribal groups to serve its political interests.“BJP has only used the tribal and Bahujan community for their political gains, showed only the carrot of political reservation, but did nothing to make that happen,” Palekar said. "To claim your rights, you will have to launch an agitation, and AAP will be happy to support it,” he said.AAP MLAs Cruz Silva and Venzy Viegas were among those present on the occasion.