Although the BJP leaders have refrained from commenting, BJP sources confirmed that Nana had hurt them with his remark. When asked, Deputy Chief Minister Francis D’Souza stated that he had nothing against Nana, who is his good friend. However, he added, “It must be his opinion, and the constitution gives him the right to express his views. But I feel that BJP is bigger than Nana. It is an all-India party; an individual cannot be bigger than the party.”
Similarly, BJP Goa president Vinay Tendulkar refrained from making any serious comment. He only stated, “He is an individual and not related to the BJP. With regards to the ongoing polls, the BJP workers will emerge victorious. I am sure that we will get 18 to 19 seats in Mormugao, and the results that will be declared on October 27 will be our reply to Nana.”
Meanwhile, Calangute MLA Michael Lobo, who was canvassing for the BJP candidates in Vasco on Monday, stated, “Apparently, Nana is losing his power. People used to respect him earlier, but they are going away from him now. The party is growing bigger and that is why, in desperation, Nana has been making such statements.”
