PANAJI
New BJP Goa President Damu Naik has expressed his willingness to be replaced by a new face in the Fatorda constituency for the upcoming general assembly elections if the party identifies a suitable candidate.
Speaking on Prudent Media’s 'Head On', Naik stated that the proposed candidate, if any, should be a staunch party loyalist who views the BJP as his own home and is recognised for their dedication to the party.
“There is a need for a person who is acknowledged by the party as someone who truly considers it their home. Such a karyakarta can be elevated to the position of MLA, and I, along with the party, will happily take this forward,” he said.
Naik, who has been the face of BJP in Fatorda despite losing recent elections after serving as an MLA twice, further indicated that while Fatorda had been his constituency in the past, as the BJP president now, he is beyond personal ambitions. "My focus is no longer limited to one constituency but on the welfare of the entire State,” he added.
Naik described his role as that of a "fatherly figure" within the party. “All 40 constituencies should have deserving candidates, and we aim to win 27 seats in the 2027 elections. Whatever responsibilities the party entrusts me with, I take them seriously. I am not selfish, and if a new face is needed, the party should systematically groom them,” he added.
The BJP leader also highlighted that even without holding the MLA position, he has largely contributed to the party’s progress along with that of those in the constituency. He pointed out that despite losing previous elections, his vote share in Fatorda has only grown.
Reacting to concerns about alleged grievances among some senior karyakartas, Naik acknowledged their vital contributions to the BJP’s rise. “The achievements of the BJP today are also because of the old karyakartas. While there may have been instances where they felt sidelined, it is essential to bring both old and new karyakartas together in harmony. I am hopeful this will happen,” he said.
Naik admitted that he had not personally reached out to some veteran karyakartas after assuming the post of party president due to time constraints. However, he assured that their significance remains undiminished. “This is their office; it is their party. We cannot forget that,” he added.
When asked about efforts to re-engage some of those old karyakartas who had distanced themselves, Naik responded positively. He reiterated the party’s mission of securing 27 seats in the 2027 elections and assured to work across all constituencies, including Fatorda. He said wherever needed, the party will rectify past mistakes and ensure victory in more constituencies.
