The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leadership in Goa has remained non-committal on whether any further disciplinary action will be taken against ousted Art and Culture Minister Govind Gaude, following his continued public criticism of the party after being dropped from the state cabinet.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant declined to comment on the issue when questioned by the media, responding only with a silent Namaste gesture. Social Welfare Minister Subhash Phaldesai also refrained from addressing the matter, saying he was not in a position to speak on it. Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Tanavde indicated that any official party response should come from State BJP President Damodar Naik.
Gaude was removed from the cabinet on June 18, shortly after he made public allegations of corruption in the Department of Tribal Welfare—then under the Chief Minister’s portfolio—during a speech at a Prerna Divas event. His claims included accusations of contractors being asked for bribes and inefficiency in the use of public funds. The remarks caused political ripples and led to calls for action from within the government.
BJP leaders later called the decision to drop Gaude a “unanimous” one, citing a breach of party discipline and confirming that the move had the support of the central leadership.
Since his ouster, Gaude has continued to defend his statements, maintaining that he was penalized for speaking the truth and demanding accountability. He has also lashed out at State BJP President Damodar Naik, accusing him of trying to silence dissent.
Despite the escalating war of words, the BJP has so far restricted its action to removing Gaude from the cabinet. There is no indication yet of further steps such as suspension or expulsion. His portfolios currently remain with the Chief Minister, and a cabinet reshuffle is expected in the near future.