Gaonkaari
The announcement of the Ponda by-election has once again stirred political equations in Goa. Traditionally known for keeping suspense over candidate selection till the last moment, the Congress this time moved swiftly and declared Dr. Ketan Bhatikar, who recently joined from MGP, as its candidate. With local contender Rajesh Verenkar stepping aside in support, Congress appears to have streamlined its internal process.
BJP’s Position and Alliance Factor
While the BJP faces some uncertainty over its candidate, its alliance with MGP keeps its confidence intact.
The larger question, however, is whether Congress can bring together other opposition forces. Many believe that the Ponda by-election could set the tone for a broader anti-BJP alliance ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.
Whether this becomes a beginning of unity or signals its collapse remains to be seen.
Congress and the Alliance Challenge
Despite announcing its candidate early, Congress seems to have overlooked the need to build consensus among opposition parties.
This reflects a recurring pattern where the party appears not to have fully learned from past setbacks. In the 2022 Assembly elections, Congress slipped to third place, behind BJP and MGP, with RGP and AAP following.
Internal Differences Within Congress
Within Congress itself, there are differing approaches to alliances.
While Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao is seen favouring an understanding with RGP, GPCC President Amit Patkar is believed to be inclined towards aligning with Vijai Sardesai’s Goa Forward Party.
Meanwhile, although AAP’s central leadership has ruled out an alliance with Congress, its Goa MLAs Venzy Viegas and Cruz Silva have shown openness to local-level cooperation.
AAP’s Aggressive Political Push
Amid this backdrop, AAP has made aggressive moves.
Its national convenor Arvind Kejriwal’s sudden visit to Goa, following his legal relief in a liquor case, was marked by public outreach and political mobilisation in Ponda.
The party also inducted new members, including figures with controversial backgrounds, signalling its intent to expand rapidly.
AAP’s Strategy and Growing Influence
These developments are likely to create fresh challenges for Congress.
AAP’s strategy appears clear—to position itself as the principal challenger to BJP in Goa.
Drawing from its experience in Delhi, where it dismantled Congress’s long-standing dominance, AAP seems confident of replicating a similar trajectory in Goa.
Resource Advantage and Political Positioning
AAP, currently in power in Punjab, has the ability to mobilize substantial financial resources for the Goa elections.
In contrast, Congress and regional parties are struggling to raise funds.
AAP’s strategy is to outpace these parties and position itself as the only credible force capable of effectively challenging the BJP, while convincing voters of its organizational strength and financial preparedness.
A Possible “Apshakun” for Congress
In this evolving political landscape, AAP’s growing presence could well turn into an “apshakun” (ill omen) for Congress.
If the party fails to build unity and adapt its strategy, it risks being further sidelined in Goa’s political arena.
