PANAJI
While the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) may project confidence about clinching victory in both constituencies, concerns raised by its national observer cast doubt on the campaign strategies and the effectiveness of rapport between candidates and grassroot workers with the voters across Goa.
The local leaders were presented with a sobering reality by the party’s National General Secretary (Organization) B L Santhosh during his meeting held just before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rally at Sancoale.
Reliable sources have revealed that Santhosh made a stern remark asking the leaders to not be complacent in assuming a definitive win based on statistical projections only, stating it may belie the true sentiments of the electorates.
“It's important that all stakeholders intensify their efforts in the run-up to the polls. Time is limited and there should be no laxity in campaigning and connecting with the voters, even repeatedly,” the source said, quoting Santhosh’s discussion with the leaders which had Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, ministers, MLAs and both the candidates among other office bearers.
Sources further revealed that Santhosh subtly expressed his dissatisfaction with the ongoing campaign, particularly in South Goa, where the political tide appeared to be shifting in favour of the Congress.
His marathon meeting began with the Panaji Core Committee, followed by the meet in Margao and Mapusa where he asked the local leaders to quickly identify and rectify any lapses. Santhosh also asked them to adopt a more aggressive stance in criticising Congress and to ramp up its campaign efforts.
Sources further said that while BJP Goa attempted to target Congress candidate Viriato Fernandes over anti-constitutional remarks, Santhosh expressed dismay over weak approach in North Goa where Congress candidate Ramakant Khalap is pitted against five-time MP Shripad Naik.
“Have you thoroughly assessed the issues that can be raised against Khalap and Fernandes? Is there a comprehensive strategy in place to utilise social media effectively?” he queried.
Santhosh, it is learnt, thereafter furnished a detailed report of his meetings to the Central leadership as it would prepare PM Modi to tap those areas where BJP State probably lacked. “This was probably the reason that B L Santhosh was sent to Goa two days prior to the PM’s rally in Sancoale. The Central leadership wanted to get feedback on the ground situation,” the source said.
