Many Goans were thrilled with Captain Viriato's unexpected victory in the South Goa Lok Sabha seat! While some credit is due to the India Alliance leaders for presenting a united front, it was largely the civil society, activists, and ordinary people who championed his win.
Looking ahead, it’s promising that the India Alliance will continue; however, the Congress party must avoid past mistakes, such as making poor, short-sighted decisions in candidate selection, which led to disloyalty. The Congress's slow decision-making process, often tied to the high command, allows the BJP to outmaneuver them in securing votes.
Those who supported Captain Viriato should impress the Congress to adopt a robust candidate selection process for the 2027 Assembly Election, starting early.
Despite being a better alternative to the BJP, the Congress cannot take Goans for granted by endorsing dubious candidates. It’s preferable for the Congress to lose a seat rather than have a “winnable” candidate defect later.
The Congress must be pressured to overhaul its North Goa organization with a winning attitude, as like-minded people seek a change from the BJP.
