Bhike banks on outspokenness against BJP to bag Cong nod

MAPUSA

In the political landscape of North Goa in the upcoming Lok Sabha election, Vijay Bhike, President of the North Goa District Congress and a candidate aspirant, has spotlighted his party loyalty and vocal opposition to the ruling BJP as key factors in his bid for the parliamentary seat.

Bhike on Monday underscored his ascent from the grassroots of the Congress party, emphasising his outspokenness against the BJP's governance and policies.

He is pitied against a more versatile and political colossal Ramakant Khalap, a former union minister and prominent Congress figure, who is also vying for the North Goa parliamentary seat.

While Khalap boasts of established electoral and academic credentials, Bhike is keen to highlight his journey from the party cadre and his vocal stance against the BJP.

“Don’t compare me with Ramakant Khalap. Compare me with the BJP. Academic qualification may be one criteria but coming up from the cadre, loyalty and speaking against political opponents is also taken into consideration while deciding on the ticket,” the North Goa President said.

Bhike also urged voters to scrutinise the BJP's track record, particularly that of Shripad Naik, the incumbent MP for North Goa.

He criticized Naik's purported lack of vocal representation in both the parliament and in the state, contrasting it with his own outspoken advocacy against the ruling party.

Amidst speculation over the delay in announcing candidatures, Bhike affirmed that the Congress party's groundwork was already in motion, with preparations such as booth committee meetings and training sessions well underway.

He emphasised that the party's focus remained steadfast on grass roots mobilisation, despite the absence of formal announcements regarding candidatures.

He also touched on the BJP's perceived uncertainty in both the North and South Goa constituencies.

While the BJP is yet to unveil its candidate for South Goa, Bhike suggested that the party's confidence appeared shaky in North Goa, contrasting with his party's proactive approach to campaign preparations.