On one hand, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant is dealing with internal party politics, while on the other, he is carefully playing his cards to ensure that the opposition does not grow stronger. He has assured party leadership that the opposition will not unite, as they remain suspicious of one another. This confidence reflects his political shrewdness.

In the Assembly, the government uses its majority to pass laws and amendments. These laws have far-reaching consequences for the state, society, economy, and environment. Since the Assembly’s primary role is to create and amend laws, it is the duty of every legislator to study them thoroughly. Claiming ignorance of a law’s impact after supporting it is nothing but an act of evasion. Many believe that Section 39(A) of the Town and Country Planning Act is destructive. Therefore, the public has every right to question all legislators who supported it.
In Valpoi constituency, residents of Usgaon–Tisk held a meeting in support of Town and Country Planning Minister Vishwajit Rane. Although they intended to gather thousands, the turnout in Valpoi was lower than expected. Eventually, Usgaon–Tisk locals came together to show at least symbolic support. In this meeting, Rane’s supporters argued that holding him solely responsible for Section 39(A) is unfair. If that were true, it would imply autocracy. They questioned whether he was misusing the law without the Chief Minister’s consent, demanding clarity on the matter.
For Dr. Sawant, Vishwajit Rane has become a political headache. It is widely discussed that Rane funds the party through the Town Planning Department and has contributed significantly to election campaigns in other states. In such circumstances, action against him seems unlikely. Only if the narrative emerges that Rane alone is endangering the BJP in Goa could he be isolated. Yet, no party would willingly let go of a “golden goose.”
Rane’s dominance in two constituencies and his ability to secure votes for the North Goa Lok Sabha candidate make him a powerful figure. Expecting the party to sideline him merely out of respect for public sentiment is unrealistic. Just as two swords cannot remain in one sheath, it seems improbable that Dr. Sawant and Rane can coexist peacefully.
Rane has tried to position himself as a leader but failed. Reports suggest he has now accepted the idea of a third alternative leadership. His stance has shifted to: “I don’t need the Chief Minister’s chair, but Dr. Sawant must go.” This has created a dilemma for the party, as it lacks a strong alternative face to replace Sawant. The few names discussed have not gained consensus, forcing central leadership to deliberate further.
Dr. Sawant, a shrewd strategist, has ensured no rival exists in his Sankhali constituency, maintaining complete control there. If Rane attempts to interfere in Sankhali, Sawant has already devised a plan to weaken him in Valpoi. He has cleverly kept certain locals in contact, ready to act against Rane if needed.
At present, Goa’s politics revolves around these two leaders. The BJP organization itself is being strained by this internal conflict. Leaders imported from Congress have gained control, leaving genuine party workers and volunteers sidelined. While managing internal strife, Sawant is also ensuring that opposition groups remain divided. His assurance to party leadership that rivals will not unite highlights his confidence.
For now, one must acknowledge Dr. Pramod Sawant’s political strategy, it is undeniably effective.