MAPUSA
The performance of the three turncoat MLAs from Bardez – Michael Lobo, Delilah Lobo, and Kedar Naik – during the recent Lok Sabha elections presents a mixed picture regarding their contributions to the BJP and their influence in their respective constituencies.
While it did not significantly bolster BJP’s performance in Calangute, it led to a diminished but still positive lead in Siolim and an improved performance in Saligao. This highlights the complexity of voter loyalty and the challenges of switching parties.
CALANGUTE
Michael Lobo, despite his strong personal rapport with voters in the Calangute assembly constituency, failed to translate this goodwill into significant support for the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections.
The Congress secured a lead of over 2,000 votes, a clear indication that Michael’s influence did not extend to benefiting the BJP in this context.
This result aligns with the historical voting patterns in Calangute, where the Congress has consistently led in parliamentary polls due to the substantial minority population.
This suggests that Michael’s personal popularity in assembly elections does not necessarily sway voters at the national level, particularly in a constituency with deep-rooted party loyalties, compelling the BJP to consider these dynamics carefully to strategise future campaigns in coastal constituencies like Calangute.
SIOLIM
In Siolim, Delilah Lobo managed to secure a lead for the BJP, but it was significantly reduced compared to previous elections. The lead dropped from 5,098 votes in 2019 to 2,631 votes, indicating a notable decline.
Delilah Lobo attributed this reduced margin to the reluctance of the original BJP karyakartas to work effectively following her defection from Congress.
This points to internal party discord and lingering resentment among long-time BJP workers, which undermined her efforts.
Despite this, the BJP still managed to maintain a lead, albeit smaller, suggesting that while Delilah could mobilise some support, the overall impact of her defection might have been more disruptive than beneficial.
SALIGAO
Kedar Naik’s performance in Saligao was relatively better, with the BJP achieving a lead of 3,495 votes compared to 2,484 votes in 2019.
This improvement suggests that Naik was able to consolidate his position and garner more support for the BJP despite facing resentment from former BJP loyalists.
Naik’s ability to increase the lead indicates a successful, albeit not entirely smooth, integration into the BJP and effective mobilisation of voters.
