Out of the present women councillors, only Chairperson Roopa Bhakta, Vice Chairperson Vijeta Naik and Marlyn D’Souza are re-contesting the election. Sneha Bhobe and Shubhangi Vaigankar are former councillors, while rest are new faces.
When asked why she is re-contesting, Bhakta stated, “Cleanliness has become a big issue in our town. As women are more sensitive towards cleanliness, the issue will be handled efficiently by them in the council. Further, I am interested in completing the pending developmental works of Mapusa.”
Naik’s reason for re-contesting is to work for the betterment of her ward and Mapusa town. Similarly, Ward 14 candidate Bhobe stated, “I am a former municipal chairperson, and I am aware of the priorities of Mapusa town.”
Six out of 20 wards are reserved for women. As many as 28 women candidates are as independents. Of the 20 candidates fielded by the BJP, six are women. The Congress has supported eight independents, out of which four are women.
