VASCO
With assembly elections only a few months away, political parties are on a “political headhunting” spree in the port town and are busy wooing potential candidates to represent them at the polls.
Parties like BJP, Congress, AAP, MGP and NCP are serious about Vasco constituency and many parties have already begun scouting for candidates in the port town.
Among the “open” contenders shortlisted by different parties include former MPDA chairman Krishna (Daji) Salkar, while another such “candidate material” is former Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) Chairperson Nandadeep Raut.
Sources said Raut has been approached by some national and local parties, but many wonder if Raut is willing to contest against his mentor and very close friend, Vasco BJP MLA Carlos Almeida.
"Supporters of Raut are insisting that he takes up the offer and contests the upcoming assembly elections, but as of now it is not clear which party will be acceptable to Raut,” said a source.
“As a businessman, Raut has a strong connect with the business lobby in Vasco and is also known to many prominent citizens, who are backing him to contest mainstream elections.”
“Every political party wants to have a candidate from Mormugao taluka, which is considered a BJP fortress and Vasco seems to be the centre stage. Raut has also shown his potential after he got his wife elected from his ward with a thumping majority during the recent municipal elections.”
The source said a national party has had multiple meetings with Raut and even gave him a proposal to contest on the party ticket from Vasco.
When contacted, Raut admitted that he had been approached by different parties to contest from Vasco constituency, but said he would take a final call after discussion with his supporters and well-wishers.
"It is true that one national party met with me many times and requested me to contest from Vasco on their party symbol. I have also received offers from other local parties as well. I will soon take a call on contesting assembly elections from Vasco," said Raut.
