BJP state president Damu Naik launching a hearse van and a mobile morgue at Fatorda on Wednesday. Santosh Mirajkar
MARGAO
Political rivals BJP state president Damu Naik and Goa Forward Party (GFP) chief Vijai Sardesai crossed swords on Wednesday after Naik did not rule out the possibility of political leaders currently opposing the BJP extending support to the party during government formation at the eleventh hour in 2027.
Without naming Sardesai, the BJP state president hinted that those currently opposing the BJP could eventually support the party in forming the government after the Assembly elections. However, he hastened to assert that the BJP would secure 30 seats in the 2027 elections, including the Fatorda constituency, currently represented by Sardesai.
Quick to respond, the Goa Forward chief accused Naik of trying to fish in troubled waters and deliberately creating confusion to prevent Opposition unity from taking shape.
“On the one hand, the BJP chief claims that his party will return to power with 30 seats. On the other, Naik speaks about political leaders joining or supporting the BJP at the eleventh hour,” Sardesai said, questioning whether the BJP state president was himself uncertain about the party's projected tally of 30 seats.
Sardesai also questioned Naik over his recent statement that MLA Dr Divya Rane would be inducted into the BJP Cabinet in 2027.
“Inducting an MLA into the Cabinet is the prerogative of the Chief Minister. Is Damu Naik dreaming of occupying the Chief Minister’s post in 2027 so that he can pave the way for Dr Divya Rane to join the Cabinet?” he asked.
Earlier in the day, Naik had launched a hearse van and a mobile morgue at a programme in Fatorda. Sardesai, however, questioned the timing of the initiative, wondering why the BJP state president had suddenly thought of launching these facilities when similar services were already being provided even by panchayat members and municipal councillors for the benefit of the public.
