TEAM HERALD
CALANGUTE: Former Calangute Congress MLA Agnelo Fernandes’ control of the Candolim panchayat could now be under threat, as moves are afoot by a group of Candolim panchas to join hands with Calangute’s BJP MLA Michael Lobo.
According to reliable sources, the move by the Candolim panchas to ally with Lobo was discussed at a secret meeting at a panch member’s residence.
The meeting had also deliberated on the formation of the ruling group at the Candolim Panchayat.
The plan was, however, kept in abeyance after news of the meeting became known across the village and many residents of Candolim and supporters of Fernandes expressed resentment over attempts by the Candolim panchas to join hands with the BJP.
The supporters of Fernandes demanded that the panchas resign, before switching their allegiance to the Calangute MLA.
With Calangute panchayat under the control of Joseph Sequeira, who has allied with Fernandes, attempts are now being made by the BJP to take control of Candolim panchayat, to build its base ahead of the 2017 assembly polls.
When contacted, Calangute MLA Michael Lobo admitted that some Candolim panchas had met him, but denied allegations that he was involved in moves to get the panchas to part ways with Fernandes.
“A few panchayat members of Candolim did come to me for discussions, but it was purely on developmental issues. The panchayat members of Candolim want planned and sustainable development for the village. I am always open to develop any village in my Calangute constituency,” said Lobo.
When asked, if the BJP has plans to form a ruling group to take control of the Candolim panchayat, Michael Lobo smiled and nodded his head, but refused to speak over the issue.
When contacted, Fernandes denied having any knowledge of the moves by the panchas loyal to him to form a BJP-backed panchayat in Candolim.
“I am not aware of any such moves by the panchas of Candolim,” said Fernandes.
