The response of BJP Christian MLAs to the proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), introduced in the Lok Sabha on March 25, remains keenly awaited. The issue has gained traction after the All India Catholic Union expressed concern that the Bill could empower a “designated authority” with sweeping powers to seize, manage, or even dispose of assets and funds of organisations registered under the Act — including churches, educational institutions etc. In an election year, this assumes added political significance. Christian legislators backing the government could find themselves in a delicate position if the Opposition chooses to turn the issue into a campaign flashpoint. Wait and watch.
Opposition unity? Cong MP woos Goa Forward for Ponda by-poll
The weekend witnessed South Goa MP Captain Viriatobab Fernandes reaching out to Goa Forward Party chief Vijai Sardesai, urging him to support Congress candidate Dr Ketanbab Bhatikar in the upcoming Ponda by-election. Whether Vijaibab will respond positively remains uncertain, but what is evident is the growing bonhomie between the Congress MP and Goa Forward leadership. This comes shortly after Goa Forward leader Durgadasbab Kamat was seen sharing a light moment over ice cream with the Congress MP in Delhi — a gesture that has not gone unnoticed in political circles.
After Viriato’s appeal, GFP-Cong leaders hold booth meeting
This may make reading interesting. Moments after Congress MP Captain Viriatobab Fernandes appealed to the Goa Forward Party to join the Ponda by-poll campaign in support of the Congress candidate Dr Ketanbab Bhatikar, Goa Forward leader Durgadasbab Kamat went into a huddle with newly-appointed Kushavati district Congress president Rajeshbab Verenkar to discuss booth management ahead of the April 9 by-poll. The duo was spotted together discussing matters relating to booth management. Has Leader of Opposition Yuribab Alemao anything to say on the Rajesh-Durga meet?
Final days, Vijai yet to decide on campaigning for Bhatikar
While GFP leader Durgadasbab Kamat’s meeting with Congress Kushavati district president, Rajeshbab Verenkar has set tongues wagging, the larger question still looms — will Vijaibab Sardesai eventually join the campaign trail for Dr Ketanbab Bhatikar? With just days left for the April 9 polling, political observers note that Vijaibab has so far maintained a distance, reportedly declining requests to campaign after being irked by the “Judas” remark made by Leader of Opposition Yuribab Alemao. As the clock ticks down, all eyes remain on Vijaibab’s next move.
Opposition trio trains guns on MMC over garden, fire row
PWD Minister Digambarbab Kamat’s young challengers — Chirag Naik, Prabhav Naik, and not to mention Savio Coutinho — seemed leaving no stone unturned to take on the seasoned campaigner. The trio has consistently targeted the Kamat-controlled Margao Municipal Council, particularly over the much-debated “iconic” municipal garden project. The weekend fire at the municipal market only handed them fresh ammunition. Wasting no time, the young guns were back on the offensive, launching renewed attacks on the functioning of the civic body. And you know why.
