Chief Minister Pramodbab Sawant’s decision to distribute portfolios to the newly-inducted Cabinet Ministers and reshuffle his Council of Ministers on Ganesh Chaturthi has set tongues wagging in political circles. Why? Because soon after Diggu’s induction into the Cabinet, party chief Damubab had confidently announced that the CM would assign portfolios on Monday—Lord Dambab’s Day. However, Monday came and went without any movement. Diggu later hinted the distribution might take place only after Chaturthi. But in a surprising twist, the CM handed out the portfolios precisely on Ganesh Chaturthi, sending a clear and calculated message: when it comes to key decisions, it’s the Chief Minister—and only the Chief Minister—who calls the shots. Any questions?
PWD with Kamat, spotlight now on budget balance
The prized Public Works Department (PWD) portfolio stirred immediate speculation the moment it was allotted to Margao MLA Diggu. Why the buzz? Because with five months of the financial year over, politicos and contractors alike are busy trying to figure out how much budget remains under the PWD head for the remaining seven months. Insiders say that unless this high-profile portfolio is backed by sufficient financial allocation, it may well remain a paper tiger. Interesting isn’t it?
No more ‘chillar’? Subhash gets Drinking Water portfolio
Social Welfare Minister Subhash Phal Dessai once famously dubbed his earlier set of portfolios as mere “chillar”—loose change—leaving many in political circles wondering what exactly the outspoken minister meant. Whatever his intention, it appears Chief Minister Pramodbab Sawant has now sought to make amends, rewarding Subhashbab with the important Drinking Water portfolio in the recent reshuffle. Whether this new assignment truly compensates for the earlier slight remains to be seen? But one thing is for certain: water is life.
Chaturthi darshan: Saxtti politicos make beeline to CM’s residence
This Chaturthi, Saxtti politicos made a beeline to Chief Minister Pramodbab Sawant’s Sanquelim residence to offer festive greetings. Among those spotted, includes outgoing Minister Aleixobab Sequeira, IDC Chairman Reginaldbab Lourenco, Velim MLA Cruzbab Silva and not to forget former Ministers Churchillbab Alemao and Mickkybab Pacheco. BJP ST leader Anthonybab Barbosa also visited the CM, accompanied by a delegation of Raia panchayat members. Ganapati Bappa Morya!
Churchill sees hope for Benaulim with Digambar at PWD helm
Varca strongman Bab Churchill appeared elated at Chief Minister Pramodbab Sawant’s decision to allocate the PWD portfolio to newly-inducted Minister Digambarbab Kamat. Having presided over the PWD portfolio during Diggu’s tenure as Chief Minister, Churchillbab expressed confidence that the Margao MLA would do justice to the role. With his sights firmly set on Benaulim, Churchillbab hoped that Diggu’s return to the PWD helm would bring benefits to the Benaulim constituency as well. Quite interesting, considering that Benaulim is currently represented by Aam Aadmi Party MLA Venzybab Viegas.