Porvorim, Aug 31: The question of a possible opposition alliance ahead of the next Goa Assembly elections triggered a fresh political exchange between Goa Forward Party chief Vijai Sardesai and Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao on Sunday.

Speaking on the possibility of an alliance, Sardesai questioned whether his party should join hands with a political formation which, according to him, people believe is headed for a “hat-trick”.

“Should I do an alliance with hat-trick? Data shows they will do a hat-trick,” Sardesai remarked while commenting on the political calculations surrounding a possible tie-up. His comments were widely seen as being directed at the Congress.

Reacting to Sardesai’s remarks, Alemao asserted that his overriding political objective was to defeat the BJP.

Alemao said he had “never had a honeymoon with the BJP” and stressed that he was proud of having never switched sides. He maintained that he would continue fighting the BJP “till my last breath”.

The exchange assumes significance as discussions over opposition unity and possible alliances gain momentum ahead of the next Goa Assembly elections.

While Sardesai appeared to question the electoral viability of an alliance, Alemao sought to underline his anti-BJP credentials and reiterated that defeating the ruling party remained his priority.

The remarks indicate that although opposition parties broadly speak about taking on the BJP together, questions over electoral performance, past political equations and the terms of any potential alliance could emerge as major issues in the run-up to the polls.