Team Herald
PANJIM: After upsetting the BJP in Maharashtra, the Shiv Sena is hopeful of “Mahagathbandhan” in Goa during 2022 elections, with opposition parties to unitedly fight against Dr Pramod Sawant-led government.
Addressing media persons on Sunday, Shiv Sena Maharashtra Minister Deepak Kesarkar said it was necessary to stem the BJP’s political tide, accusing the ruling party of finishing off regional political parties by first aligning with them.
He said the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) supremo Sharad Pawar will play a crucial role in bringing opposition parties together in Goa.
“Mahagathbandhan in Goa is a need of the hour to take on BJP. The opposition including Congress, NCP and the regional parties need to be united,” he said.
“Keeping aside all the differences, it’s time for the opposition to be united for a single cause…to defeat BJP,” he added.
Kesarkar, who was in Goa for inauguration of party’s regional office, said he will hold talks with Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and NCP chief Sharad Pawar with regards to formation of pre-poll “Mahagathbandhan” for 2022 elections against BJP.
“Sharad Pawar played a crucial role in formation of Maha Vikas Aghadi in Maharashtra. The leader has a special bond for Goa and I am confident that he will take the lead for a similar alliance in the coastal State,” the minister said adding ‘senior Congress and NCP stalwarts will have to sit together and work out a joint strategy’.
In a 40-member State Assembly, BJP enjoys a complete majority with 28 MLAs (including Speaker) and one Independent. The opposition includes five from Congress, three representing Goa Forward Party, two Independents and one from MGP.
Kesarkar accused the BJP of trying to diminish regional parties across the country.
“BJP is known for their dirty politics where they want to finish the regional parties. BJP wants to grow big at the cost of regional parties. And this has to be stopped,” he said.
Speaking about Shiv Sena, the leader said, “The party will concentrate in limited constituencies, rather than focusing on entire 40 seats. We would be happy, even if we manage to win one or two seats”.
Kesarkar said Shiv Sena has good scope in North Goa, especially in Pernem and Sanquelim constituencies, for their earlier association with Sawantwadi.
