Panaji: Bitter factionalism within RG has resurfaced, with MLA Viresh Borkar and former party treasurer Ajay Kholkar again trading allegations over alleged financial irregularities.The two have also issued ultimatums to each other as the party’s cadre and support base watch the conflict unfold.Borkar said he has served a legal notice on Kholkar over alleged defamatory remarks, including claims that he accepted Rs 3 crore from the Congress. He also accused Kholkar of misappropriating Rs 24 lakh from the RG bank account.Borkar has sought an unconditional public apology from Kholkar within three days, failing which he has warned of criminal action and a damages claim of Rs 6 crore.“Ajay Kholkar made an allegation against me saying that I have taken Rs 3 crore from Girish. I had warned that I would file a defamation case and on Tuesday we sent him a legal notice. If he does not respond, then we will continue with the case,” said the MLA.The fresh feud erupted over the use of the party’s name, and representation at meetings convened by the chief electoral officer’s (CEO) office.Meanwhile, Kholkar has challenged Borkar to provide proof of allegations that the former stole Rs 24 lakh from the party account, even offering to let Borkar inspect his house. The animosity between the friends-turned-foes has reached a point where Kholkar said that he would “end” Borkar’s political career.Kholkar is also on the back foot over his alleged remarks against RGP president Shavina Naik Shirodkar. “I apologised to Shirodkar on Tuesday, but protests against me are still continuing. The villagers supporting me have come here to see who is threatening me,” he said.Borkar said Kholkar appeared insecure, while Kholkar hit back, alleging that efforts were being made to suppress tribals like him who had helped build the RGP.“Earlier protests like 39A were successful because I was with them. Now, there is nobody with Viresh Borkar,” Kholkar said. “Congress does not want RGP to grow, and that is why it is using Viresh Borkar to target us.”
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