Social activists from across Goa on Friday evening resolved to stay united against what they termed the “arbitrary and communal rule” of the BJP government, vowing to identify and support people-centric candidates for the 2027 Vidhan Sabha elections.
The meeting, convened in Margao by senior advocate and activist Radharao Gracias, saw activists agree that integrity, vision and public commitment should outweigh electoral “winnability.”
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Gracias cited the example of South Goa MP Viriato Fernandes, stating his recent Lok Sabha victory was owed not to the Congress party but to his credibility and wide public support. “The time has come for us to unite. People must choose good candidates who truly represent their interests,” he said, criticising Congress for prioritising “winnable” faces over merit.
Pratima Coutinho stressed rejecting divisive politics: “Our freedom fighters fought for independence without bias, but today divisive politics is taking over Goa. Opposition groups must unite and review the report card of every candidate before extending support,” she said, calling for door-to-door mobilisation in every constituency.
Walter Lobo demanded an end to vote-buying, arguing that “corrupt politicians win because people accept bribes,” while Sudip Dalvi condemned the rise of “dons” and “corrupt leaders”. Both urged activists to identify “noble individuals” willing to serve public interests.
From Sanguem, councillor Meshy D’Costa said, “We need to unite to back candidates who will work for and stay with the people” .
RTI activist Swapnesh Sherlekar warned against multiple candidates splitting votes, saying this has historically aided the BJP’s rise. “We must decide on one strong candidate to avoid vote division and give a united fight,” he said.
The meeting concluded with a pledge to intensify grassroots mobilisation and candidate selection well before the 2027 polls.
