the goan I network
PANAJI
The counting in North Goa was taken up in two parts, the first consisting of ten constituencies: Mandrem, Bicholim, Mapusa, Siolim, Calangute, Aldona, Taleigao, St Andre, Mayem and Poriem. Mandrem’s BJP candidate and ex-CM Laxmikant Parsekar was in for a rude awakening after round one of the counting that put him behind Congress’ Dayanand Sopte. Congress supporters outside were also surprised by the unprecedented win and quickly took over the celebratory roar that was initially dominated by BJP supporters. BJP supporters, however, picked up the pace and victory, albeit for a short time, when the Mayem, Aldona, Calangute and Mapusa seats were theirs. Goa Forward’s Siolim victory of Vinod Palayekar over sitting MLA Dayanand Mandrekar brought yet another group of supporters to life, lifting the winner on their shoulders chanting slogans.
The second part comprised Pernem, Tivim, Saligao, Porvorim, Panaji, St Cruz, Cumbarjua, Sanquelim and Valpoi. Rivals Manohar Azgaonkar (MGP) and Rajendra Arlekar (BJP) were seen in the barricaded area during the counting of the first parts. But as it became clear Azgaonkar was winning, the losing Arlekar was booed by MGP supporters as he left in his car.
The loudest and probably happiest crowd was that of news of Porvorim MLA Rohan Khaunte’s victory. Mostly comprising of youngsters, Khaunte’s supporters cheered between each round that put him in the lead.
Though police stationed outside the counting centre had created a barricade, people began streaming in after counting for the second part began.
Towards the end of the counting, people selling garlands were also to be seen, with the flowers sold being used for greeting the winners. But while on the outside, a garland would cost anything between Rs 20 and Rs 50, in the counting center arena, the garlands were selling for Rs 100.
