Former Mayor Ashok Naik on Monday declined Congress' offer to contest Panaji by-poll against CM Manohar Parrikar citing division amongst supporters on the issue. He became the second potential candidate to refuse Congress ticket.
Responding to the situation, GPCC President Shantaram Naik stated that he will communicate the decision to Congress' central leadership and consult the party's MLA's in Goa. Congress party had neglected the Panaji seat for past many years, Mr Naik said. He further stated that he personally favours a candidate from North Goa for Panaji, but the ultimate decision rests with the AICC in Delhi.
