The controversy of MLA Venzy Viegas comparing current Chief Minister Pramod Sawant with the first chief minister of liberated Goa DB Bandodkar, is a waste of time and futile. Bandodkar led Goa post liberation amid a challenging time, which saw transition from colonial regime to civilian administration via a regime led by military governor. Bandodkar had the magnamity to resign before the historic Opinion Poll. He accepted the verdict of the masses in the Opinion Poll. Post the Opinion Poll, the Assembly election saw Bandodkar gaining a majority and forming the government once again. This fact cannot be overlooked as it proves that Bandodkar was elected with a majority by the same electorate which rejected his pro-merger advances. Bandodkar contributed much to Goa, especially in fields of infrastructure, education and social welfare. The Agricultural Tenancy Act, 1964, alone is a shining example of his legacy. The politicians of today must face the current challenges and lead Goans to tide over them. Let us give the former chief ministers their due. We must assess their governance but with an academic perspective.
