PANAJI
The possibility of a major political realignment ahead of the 2027 Assembly polls gained traction on Monday after Congress announced that it will hold fresh discussions with the Goa Forward Party (GFP) to ascertain whether the regional outfit still intends to merge with the party or prefers to continue as an alliance partner in the fight against the BJP.
"Goa Forward Party is our alliance partner. We have a relationship and understanding with them. GFP wanted to merge with Congress. We will hold talks with GFP on what they are looking for — whether they want a merger or an alliance with us and put up a joint fight against the BJP," AICC Goa in-charge Manikrao Thakare told media persons.
The statement comes amid confirmation from both the Congress high command and State leadership that GFP had submitted a proposal seeking merger with the Congress. Earlier on Sunday, GFP Chief Vijai Sardesai had also revealed his intentions to merge the party.
Thakare said the GFP had first expressed its desire to merge with the Congress after the 2022 Assembly elections; however, any would be taken only after consultations between the State leadership and the party high command.
"Once the State leaders decide, they will submit a proposal to the high command. GFP is a regional party and Congress is a national party," Thakare said.
GPCC president Girish Chodankar also confirmed that a merger proposal from GFP is pending before the Congress leadership.
"Goa Forward Party has submitted a proposal for merger with the high command. I am aware about it. The proposal is before the high command and a decision has to be taken," Chodankar said.
While acknowledging the proposal, Chodankar stressed that decisions regarding future alliances would be taken through mutual consultations.
"Future alliance cannot be decided by sitting on a stage. When it comes to alliance, both parties need to respect each other and their views," he said.
With Assembly elections due in the coming months, Chodankar said the Congress has already shifted into election mode and is aggressively strengthening its organisation across Goa. He maintained that the party remains united and prepared for a collective battle against the BJP.
