PANAJI
The eight-day Holasthak preceding Holi, which is considered inauspicious, is the reason why the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) that managed to ward off anti-incumbency and emerge the single largest party with 20 seats has delayed swearing in the new government.
Senior BJP leaders admitted that the belief dictated by Hindu mythology that no Shubh Karya (auspicious ceremonies) should be held in this period before Holi is the reason that a government is still not in the saddle, more than a week after the results were declared.
During these eight days, the nature of all planets becomes fiery and it affects any Shubh Karya (important ceremony).
If you do go ahead with any auspicious work then it either will be ruined or results will be opposite of what you expect according to Hindu belief, said a senior BJP leader.
Belying opinions of political analysts and pundits, the BJP returned with a stunning 20 seats when the results of the February 14 assembly elections were declared on March 10. Its main competitor Congress won 11 and its alliance partner Goa Forward Party won another, leaving the alliance a long way from the halfway mark.
However, despite having the numbers with the two Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) legislators and three Independents pledging support, the BJP is yet to finalise its government formation plans or stake claim to install a new government.
The delay did trigger speculation of a tussle within for the leadership as also difficulties in finalising the composition of the cabinet.
Sawant, who is caretaker chief minister and is all but set to don the mantle again, however, dismissed the reports of any infighting within the party.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the function to commemorate the third death anniversary of Manohar Parrikar, the caretaker chief minister said his Delhi visit had nothing to do with any such internal bickering but to submit a report on the election to the central leadership and also to thank them.
Meanwhile, BJP’s Central observers are expected to arrive in Goa after March 21.
