the goan I network
PANAJI
The high tension polls have riddled the psephologists and the predictions have finally zeroed down on the possibility of a narrow fight. However, in all likelihood, at least one of the two prominent national political parties are likely to be the first past the post. If both cross the hurdle and secure 16 or more, Goa will be placed on the much-dreaded shaky political platform for at least a few months if not the first half of the term, as is evident from the experience in 2002 and 2007.
In 2002, the BJP secured 17 seats and the Congress won 16. The BJP went on to form the government with the support of three MLAs of United Goans Democratic Party, two of Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party and an independent candidate, Filipe Nery Rodrigues. But stability lasted only from June 3, 2002 till February 2, 2005, when UGDP and MGP withdrew their support and four MLAs resigned. Chaos reigned in the House and prompted the Governor dissolved the Assembly. Pratapsing Rane was called upon to form the government.
Then followed another round of resignations including that of Digambar Kamat from the BJP, the speaker and deputy speaker of the House and disqualification of Filip Nery as well as Matanhy Saldanha from the House. President’s Rule was imposed on March 4, 2005 and was lifted only after the bypolls. Congress government which was formed under Rane on June 7, 2005 lasted till June 2, 2007.
The 2007 polls gave rise to two similarly placed fronts again with the Congress securing 16 and the BJP clinching 14. Congress formed the government proving its strength at 24 with the support of its ally Nationalist Congress Party, MGP, UGDP and two
