Here’s something to ponder: Will the government promulgate an ordinance to carry out municipal ward delimitation based on population census data, now that the Election Commission of India has lifted the model code of conduct imposed due to the Ponda by-poll? While the State Election Commission has initiated delimitation based on the updated voters’ list following the SIR exercise, some ministers in the Pramod Sawant government are reportedly in favour of using population census data instead. It remains to be seen which path the government will take, more so when the SEC has already set in motion the ward delimitation process based on voters data.
Cong under fire over Palekar induction, 2027 ticket buzz
The Congress party found itself facing a host of questions on social media after opening its doors to former Aam Aadmi Party leader Goa chief Amit Palekar. Among the key concerns raised was whether Palekar has been assured a ticket for the 2027 elections. If so, will the party field him from Santa Cruz—a constituency that has consistently elected a minority candidate in recent elections? Several questions remain unanswered, including the crucial one: which leader gave the green signal for Palekar’s entry into the party without adequately considering the ground realities?
Vijai’s absence from Ponda campaign raises questions
With the Ponda by-poll now cancelled following a High Court order, another question lingers—why did Goa Forward chief Vijai Sardesai stay away from campaigning for the alliance candidate, Ketan Bhatikar? While the party may claim it upheld alliance dharma by not fielding its own candidate, Sardesai’s absence from the campaign trail has raised eyebrows. Was it due to the “Judas” remark by Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao, or did Sardesai choose to tread cautiously to avoid giving the impression that he was opposing the legacy of the late Ravi Naik or the sentiments of the Bhandari community, which form significant voters in his home constituency Fatorda? The speculation continues.
Mickky comeback buzz, Dixon emergence stir Benaulim
In coastal Benaulim, banners put up by former minister Mickky Pacheco and emerging leader—and Cavelossim Sarpanch—Dixon Vaz, extending Easter greetings, have sparked fresh political speculation. The displays have fuelled talk of Pacheco planning a political comeback from Benaulim in 2027. Vaz’ prominent presence has also caught public attention, raising questions about his possible electoral debut. Reportedly, the sarpanch installed around 45 banners across the constituency, signalling that the battle for Benaulim may already be underway.
Grievances meet politics in Kamat’s Benaulim visit
Several eyebrows were raised in coastal Benaulim after PWD Minister Digambar Kamat visited the village to hear grievances from fishermen and tourism stakeholders, more so government’s plan to hand over public parking space to a hotel and the damaged beach road. The curiosity stems from the fact that Benaulim is represented by Aam Aadmi Party MLA Venzy Viegas, who was notably absent from the meeting. In contrast, social worker Warren Alemao and others, known political opponents of the MLA, welcomed the minister and presented their concerns. The political undertones of this visit have not gone unnoticed.
