VALPOI
Political activity has begun picking up in Sattari ahead of the next Goa Legislative Assembly election, with Ganesh Chaturthi greeting banners, public outreach programmes and political meetings bringing several political aspirants into focus.
The election schedule has not yet been announced. Sattari comprises the Valpoi and Poriem Assembly constituencies, represented by BJP MLAs Vishwajit Rane and Deviya Rane respectively. Both are members of the current Assembly.
Ganesh Chaturthi banners at various locations across Sattari have become a talking point, with several political figures using the festival to increase their public visibility.
In Valpoi, besides Vishwajit Rane, the names of Milind Prabhu, Manisha Usgaonkar, Ranjit Rane and Roshan Desai are being discussed in local political circles.
Prabhu's social activities and his recent association with the Congress have drawn attention, while Usgaonkar's future political role is also being watched. Desai, who has been associated with Congress activities, has indicated an interest in contesting the Assembly election if given an opportunity. His Ganeshotsav banners have added to speculation over the opposition's possible candidate in Valpoi.
Poriem sees activity
Political activity has also increased in Poriem, where Vishwasrao Rane has been raising local issues, including drinking-water concerns in the Keri area, while remaining active through social media and public outreach.
Another name being discussed is Vishwajit Krishnarao Rane, who has remained active in electoral politics through different platforms. A reported vehicle rally on August 15 and subsequent Ganeshotsav banners have added to speculation about his political plans.
His meetings with senior leaders, including Congress state president Girish Chodankar and Goa Forward Party leader Vijai Sardesai, have also generated discussion. However, there has been no official confirmation of his electoral plans or political platform.
Banner incident
An alleged attempt to damage or burn opposition banners at some locations in Poriem has also become a matter of discussion locally. The incident reportedly created tension but did not escalate into a major confrontation.
Political workers have called for peace and social harmony during Ganesh Chaturthi, saying political differences should not lead to damage to property or create tension.
The developments come as parties begin preparing their organisational networks ahead of the 2027 election. The Congress held a Valpoi-Poriem workers' convention in June as part of efforts to strengthen its grassroots organisation in Sattari.
With the election still some months away, political activity in both constituencies is expected to increase through public meetings, social initiatives, outreach programmes and issue-based campaigns.
For now, the increased visibility of political figures during Ganeshotsav and their public outreach suggest that Sattari is beginning to see greater political activity ahead of the next Assembly election.
