THE GOAN: In one sentence, why should people vote for you?
SHANKAR MUKUND PHADTE: People of Porvorim have witnessed that I have worked hard as a political opposition for the ruling dispensation for the last 5 years and have taken the cause of the people with sincerity and Integrity. Being a young, educated politician with an unblemished character, I believe that I am the change people are looking for.
TG: If you are part of the government, which is the first legislation you would like to pass in the Assembly?
SP: Goan people are scared of losing their cultural identity, its heritage and natural beauty in these changing times of rapid urbanisation. It is important that we preserve our natural cover and I would like to introduce strict penal provisions against hill cutting, land fillings, tree felling and destruction of water bodies.
TG: Which is that one leader outside your party that you admire as a politician, and why?
SP: Sadly in today's times, there are no good and trustworthy leaders in the State. I don't follow any of them.
TG: Who would be your chief ministerial choice, should your party come into power?
SP: I don't have any favourite for the CM’s post. The CM has to be selected by and among legislators of the majority party and I shall prefer a person who is sensitive and has compassion for Goan people.
TG: Do you justify a merger by 2/3rd or do you consider it as a move against the mandate of people? Explain
SP: In small states like Goa, a merger cannot be justified. I think in smaller states like ours it should be compulsory to resign and seek a fresh mandate if a legislator wants to switch sides.
TG: Do you feel that the 2022 election will throw a clear winner? Who are your top three finishers along with seats they are likely to win?
SP: I think the 2022 elections is more challenging for the voter given the multiple choices. There won't be a clear winner but surely big changes are going to happen. People are not going to vote strictly on party lines. Different parties are contesting different number of seats and it doesn't make any sense to list the finishers.
