THE RAIGAD EXPRESS

As the vibrant hues of Holi draw near, the Mumbai-Goa national highways witness a surge in traffic as families make their way back to their hometowns to partake in the joyous celebrations. For Konkani families, Holi holds a special place, marking a time of unity and jubilation. Every year, the festivities of Ganpati and Holi bring communities together in a spirit of merriment and tradition. The festival, steeped in auspiciousness, is a time for children and elders alike to participate in the age-old ritual of 'Holi dahan,' symbolizing the triumph of good over evil as flames dance high into the night sky. In a spectacle of longstanding customs, villages come alive with the sound of laughter and camaraderie as the tradition of 'pakkhi' takes center stage. The procession, encircling the entire village, sees every household visited as families, especially the women, extend warm welcomes to the singing and dancing 'pakkhi' with reverence and open arms. Delicious arom

   As the race for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections intensifies, with the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) locked in a fierce battle, there are certain critical issues that seem to be falling by the wayside. While the tussle for votes continues, it is essential to shed light on the neglected aspects that warrant attention. In this article, we will explore the overshadowed concerns surrounding party splits, corruption allegations, and the recent Supreme Court judgment on electoral bonds. While the BJP has been actively campaigning, it cannot be denied that significant party splits have taken place, casting a shadow over their credibility. A notable observation is that when an MLA or MP from another party joins the BJP, their past corruption charges are conveniently ignored. This raises questions about the selective protection offered to those who switch sides. It becomes imperative to scrutinize the integrity of such alliances and the possible implications on the democra