the goan I network
PONDA
What should be done when a long-standing political arch-rival suddenly joins the fold?
This seems to be the dilemma confronting the BJP cadre in Shiroda constituency, as workers appear split over Congress MLA Subhash Shirodkar’s sudden entry into the party.
On the one hand, party workers believe that Shirodkar’s entry into the party will strengthen the party’s presence in Shiroda constituency, while others are unhappy as they were not taken into confidence regarding a person they opposed.
When contacted, BJP Shiroda Block President Suraj Naik said they were unaware of Shirodkar’s entry into the BJP.
“Nothing was discussed or intimated to us by party leaders. When news of Shirodkar’s resignation and entry into BJP spread, I phoned South Goa MP Narendra Sawaikar who confirmed it. We had no intimation from our party office,” Naik said, adding, “I have no issues with decisions taken by our party. We will work in accordance with our senior leaders, convene a meeting of our block and convey the news,” he added.
An MLA for two terms, former minister Mahadev Naik had lost to Shirodkar in the 2017 assembly election.
Despite efforts, Naik, who is presently in America, could not be contacted over the phone for comments regarding the latest developments.
On the other hand, a BJP worker said the party would become stronger by Shirodkar’s presence, but admitted that it would be awkward to accept him after having strongly opposed him for several years.
“We have always campaigned against Shirodkar and now, we will have to work with him,” said the BJP worker on condition of anonymity.
The political developments in Shiroda came as a rude shock to those who eyed the BJP ticket and had even started funding programmes. A panch member from Borim panchayat had begun building his reputation as a candidate for the assembly election and was even seen taking leadership roles at BJP programmes.
