The elections are done and dusted with BJP claiming majority and in all likelihood set to form the government for the third consecutive term. It is pertinent to note that in most constituencies, it’s candidates had to face tough opposition, barring a few. The old warhorses had to wait until the umpteenth hour to be assured of their victory. The capital, Panaji, which witnessed late Manohar Parrikar's son locking horns with strongman Babush Monseratte turned out to be a close fight, with the latter winning by just 700 odd votes, which clearly was not what Babush expected. He later clearly voiced his disappointment at not being given the required support by his party workers. Now, the so called game of thrones begins for the hot seat. The incumbent CM Pramod Sawant will be wanting to continue in the prestigious post, but undercurrent of disapproval by some in the BJP, will be worrying him. The party top brass will want to quell any dissension arising from within for the hot seat. Although it seems likely that Sawant will pass the test, mainly because of his being in good books with the central leaders and also being an RSS karyakarta. Ultimately, the people of the state have clearly voted for a government that promises stability and good governance, which hopefully it will be able to deliver. The newly-elected MLAS should also take up their job responsibly and work for the overall development of the state, without bias and prejudice. Let the term ‘bhivpachi garaz na’ coined by Sawant be put into practice for a honest and people-friendly government.
ALOYSIUS D'SOUZA, DULER
