News of the withdrawal of the 11 independents in favour of Margao Civic Alliance came in for severe criticism on social media. Posts claimed that Goa Forward Party stage-managed the entire show to create a feel-good factor ahead of the April 23 battle. Social media was abuzz with reports claiming those who withdrew from the fray were close to the party chief. That the independents announced their withdrawal in favour of the Margao Civic Alliance from Goenkar Ghor only raised many an eyebrow.
