PANJIM: The Congress has expressed disappointment over reservation in municipal wards announced by the State government on Friday, claiming it will explore legal opinion.
Addressing the media persons after a marathon meeting with his party leaders and workers on Saturday, All India Congress Committee (AICC) Goa Desk In-Charge Gundu Rao slammed the manner in which government has decided on the wards reservation.
“Let us see when the (municipal council) elections are going to happen because I don’t know the way they (government) have done these categories, I don’t see reports allowing such type. They may stay these reservation categories,” he said in reply to a media query whether the party-backed candidates for the ensuing elections.
Rao further confirmed that the Congress will not pitch candidates on party lines but it is for the local leadership to work out strategies at local level.
“This election is not on party symbols because within the Congress there might be 2-3 of them who would want to contest…,” he added.
Opposition Leader Digambar Kamat, during his interaction with the media earlier during the day also criticised the government for an unfair categorisation of municipal wards.
“It is one sided. The government has done it the way they want, on a pick and choose basis. There is no criteria over the reservation of wards,” he stated adding, “Let’s see… Our party is also challenging.”
Party legislator Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco opined they could seek help of the judiciary to challenge the move of the government.
“This election has become BJP State election. The State Election Commission has become defunct,” he alleged adding “The reservation process is totally wrong. We have to explore legal options. We have faith in legal system.”
The party has also dropped a hint that it could ally with “like-minded people” like Vijai Sardesai for the upcoming elections. However, a final decision would be taken after consulting the Central leadership.
