PANAJI: BJP MLA Ganesh Gaonkar was elected Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly today, securing 32 votes against Congress candidate Altone D’Costa, who received seven votes.
The special session of the Goa Legislative Assembly was called today by Governor Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju following the resignation of Ramesh Tawadkar, who joined the Sawant-led cabinet last month as Minister for Art and Culture, Tribal Welfare, and Sports & Youth Affairs.
The House witnessed near-full attendance, with most MLAs present for the crucial vote. Former Minister and Nuvem MLA Aleixo Sequeira arrived a little later, while Taleigao MLA Jennifer Monserrate remained absent.
Deputy Speaker Joshua D’Souza, who chaired the proceedings, formally declared Gaonkar as the new Speaker. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao escorted him to the Chair.
Both leaders congratulated Gaonkar in the House. Sawant expressed confidence that Gaonkar would uphold the responsibilities of the post. Alemao said, “While the opposition has just seven members against 33 in the ruling side, the Speaker cannot be 'hop on & hop off'. He has to be neutral and cannot be part of the government. I am confident that Speaker Gaonkar will give us equal opportunities.” He also recognized Gaonkar’s experience as petition committee chairman, budget committee chairman, BAC member, tribal advisory board member, and pro-tem Speaker after the 2022 elections.
A two-time MLA, Gaonkar was first elected from Sanvordem in 2012, lost in 2017, and reclaimed the seat in 2022. In the current assembly, he has been part of the House committee examining the diversion of the Mhadei River by Karnataka.
