PANJIM: The sudden move of the Congress staking claim to form the government by virtue of it being the single largest party in the State, has ruffled feathers in the Manohar Parrikar-led government. While the move was termed as a “political stunt” by some, insiders revealed that in the run-up to the meeting with the Governor there were several meetings held to explore newer political combinations and also to keep the 16 MLAs together.
With political tables turning in Karnataka, where BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa resigned as Chief Minister paving the way for a Congress and JD(S) government, Congress in Goa is looking at the opportunity to tap the support of non-BJP MLAs in forming a government.
While alliance partners in public claim they are not open to joining hands with Congress in forming a new government, sources maintained that “there are some who don’t mind quitting the existing coalition”.
The collapse of the administration in the last two months in Parrikar’s absence and the increasing rift between the alliance partners, have created an atmosphere of suspicion amongst coalition members. “There is a fear that if three to four members move from this camp to another, the government will collapse. There are four more years for the next election and no one wants to remain out of power,” a senior Congress leader said, though he did not admit that his party was desperately trying to woo other MLAs.
Congress Goa Desk in-charge Dr A Chellakumar, during the few hours he spent in Goa last week, had intense discussions with a few of the leaders but the meetings remained inconclusive. “They were internal meetings. I told you we have the numbers and we will prove it on the floor of the House,” he said.
When contacted, Congress State president Girish Chodankar said there are many who are in touch with the party as they are frustrated by the administrative collapse.
Sources stated that Goa Forward Party was the first choice of the Congress to form an alliance with, but the tough stand by Vijai Sardesai seems to have spoilt the plans. Reports suggest that Sardesai has refused to have an alliance with the Congress, at least at this point of time.
Congress has also been trying to woo the club of Independent MLAs, including Rohan Khaunte, Govind Gawade and Prasad Gaonkar. Attempts are also being made to see the possibility of getting MGP on board.
“Congress doesn’t mind sacrificing the chair of the Chief Minister to form the government. The MLAs who were initially divided on the issue have now got united,” a source said.
When contacted, Sardesai said there is no question of bringing any change in Goa, just because something has happened in Karnataka. “At this moment, there is no possibility of any political change in Goa. We will not destabilise the government just because our Chief Minister is not there. Everyone knows that he is ailing and currently undergoing treatment. We are not those, who will backstab a person at this point,” he stated.
He also took jibe at Congress, who were 13 when they met the Governor on Friday to stake claim, stating, “Congress has woken up with less than the number they had post the March 2017 results.”
While Congress’ attempts are marred by a lukewarm response from the BJP’s alliance partners, the party is also facing a tough task within. Sources stated that Jennifer Monserrate might be an impediment to the Congress if it forms a government without GFP. Jennifer’s husband, Atanasio, is a GFP leader.
Besides, there is no confirmation of what Subhash Shirodkar has in mind. He was absent when the Congress MLAs went to meet the Governor as he was out of station.
