The question of who will fill the cabinet berth left vacant by former Minister, late Ravi Naik, in the Pramod Sawant-led government has become a topic of intense discussion following the last-minute cancellation of the Ponda by-election. Speculation had been rife that Ravi Naik’s son, Ritesh Naik, could be inducted into the Cabinet if he emerged victorious in the by-poll. However, with the High Court cancelling the election, political circles are now abuzz with questions about how the Chief Minister will address the vacancy. Wait and watch.
By-poll cancellation rekindles talk of ‘cash-for-votes’ in Ponda
Moments after the High Court delivered its judgement cancelling the Ponda by-poll, attention quickly shifted to another intriguing question—who among the candidates had spent the most during the campaign? This became a major talking point in bars and taverns, with curious citizens trying to assess which candidate suffered the biggest financial setback due to the abrupt cancellation. It is widely believed that parties and candidates typically distribute money to voters a day or two before polling. This has sparked further debate: if such funds were indeed disbursed, is there any possibility of recovering the money, or will candidates prefer to let voters retain it until the 2027 Assembly elections?
Yuri’s 2027 candidate remark raises eyebrows in party ranks
In another interesting development, following the High Court’s decision, Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao made a striking statement, claiming that party candidate Ketan Bhatikar would win the 2027 Assembly election. The remark has raised eyebrows both on social media and in political circles. Ponda Congress leader Rajeshbab Verenkar was quick to react, saying he is very much in the picture for the Congress ticket in 2027. What prompted Yuri to announce Bhatikar’s candidature nearly 8–9 months ahead of the elections, when the Congress high command typically declares candidates much closer to polling day? Is there more to this statement than meets the eye? Only time will tell.
Cong rift over leadership back in focus after poll cancellation
The cancellation of the Ponda by-poll has also triggered speculation about its impact on the Congress leadership under GPCC chief Amit Patkar. Observers are questioning whether a victory in Ponda might have given Patkar a much-needed boost amid growing criticism and calls for a leadership change. With the by-poll now cancelled, it remains to be seen how his detractors will carry forward their “Amit hatao” campaign, more so with speculation rife over the return of former GPCC chief Girishbab Chodankar around May. Wait and watch.
After ouster, Savio shares stage with Patkar, fuels speculation
Another development that has caught attention involves internal Congress dynamics. After a section of the party leadership reportedly ensured the removal of outgoing South Goa District Congress Committee president Savio D’Silva, GPCC chief Amitbab Patkar made an appearance in Velim constituency. He was seen alongside Saviobab at a function in Assolna to felicitate artists, sparking speculation that the outgoing district chief may be down, but certainly not out in Congress scheme of things. Insiders suggest that one of the key reasons behind the move against Savio D’Silva was to pave the way for the entry of new leaders into the Congress ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.
