MARGAO
BJP and Goa Forward supporters from Fatorda had come face to face just before the Margao Civic polls as they jostled to grab the Hospicio land at Pajifond, playing host to the decades-old migrant basti.
The passage of the controversial Goa Bhumiputra Adhikarini Bill, 2021, did not have its echo in the basti, which is believed to be playing host to around 500 votes in Fatorda constituency.
Both the key players, Fatorda MLA and Goa Forward Chief Vijai Sardesai and his arch BJP rival, Damu Naik appeared treading a cautious path on the issue. Take note, the Goa Forward chief and his party had been vocal in criticizing the Bill in Panaji, even leading a delegation to the Governor not to give his assent to the Bills passed by the government. He, however, has no plan to make it an issue back home in Fatorda.
Two-time former BJP MLA and party general secretary, Damu Naik too had no comments to offer on the Bill passed by the government led by his party. “The government has only passed the Bill. Before its implementation, necessary rules need to be framed. I cannot comment now when the rules are not in force,” Damu said.
Political observers said Damu and party workers can ill afford to welcome the Bill, least it creates bad blood with Goemkar voters nor oppose the Bill as it has been passed by the party-led government.
