the goan I network
PANAJI
In a major decision, the Maharastrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) has quit the battle of the ballot for two Lok Sabha seats, citing lack of time for campaigning. The grand old party of the State has also decided to withdraw from the by-polls in Mapusa, while Mandrem too looks uncertain with a final call awaited on Wednesday, though it will lock horns with opponents in Shiroda constituency. Decision on whom to support will be taken after last date for withdrawal of nominations.
“We can’t reach out to over one lakh voters when there are only 20 days remaining for elections. So MGP has decided not to contest the Lok Sabha election,” said Sudin Dhavlikar at a press conference in the city on Tuesday.
Some days ago the MGP had hinted that Naresh Sawal would contest from North Goa and Sudin South Goa. “My name and that of Naresh Sawal’s was just a suggestion,” said Sudin at the press briefing where Naresh Sawal too was present.
Sudin added that the party would take a decision on whom to support for Lok Sabha on April 8 once the nomination picture is clear.
“In Mapusa, we have given powers to our local executive leader Balu Phadke to take a decision on whom to support, while party executive committee will decide whether to support independent candidate Jeet Arolkar in Mandrem,” Sudin said.
IN PRAISE OF SAWANT
Sudin said that Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has the capabilities to run the government and opined that Government would complete its term if Sawant worked with his own wisdom. He advised the Chief Minister not to fall prey to his detractors.
ON SHIRODA IMBROGLIO
Conveyed to late Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar and Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari about Priol constituency being reserved for ST community and that, MGP would work in Shiroda for next elections. We started the work in Shiroda long time ago but the sudden turn of events leading to Congress candidate Subhash Shirodkar joining the BJP changed the game.
ON MINING MESS
The three BJP MPs did nothing to the solve mining issue in the state. The BJP government did not file the right affidavits in the Supreme court. BJP MPs never spoke to the centre on mining. Gadkari who was pursuing the matter was suddenly disengaged from handling the issue. Piyush Goel had warned Nilesh Cabral that he could be put behind bars, in one of the meetings.
