Margao: State BJP president Damodar ‘Damu’ Naik on Friday said the party would target the Fatorda Assembly seat, currently held by Goa Forward Party chief Vijai Sardesai, in the forthcoming Assembly election as part of its 30-seat victory target.
Speaking to the media after flagging off a train for a pilgrimage to Velankanni — a personal initiative involving 1,200 pilgrims — Naik said, “As the state BJP president, I cannot overlook the Fatorda seat. It is my fundamental responsibility to ensure that BJP secures the maximum number of seats. In the forthcoming elections, BJP will win Fatorda, contributing to our target of 30 seats.”
While not explicitly confirming his candidacy against Sardesai, Naik said individuals who had distanced themselves during previous elections were now returning to offer their support. He added that elders in Fatorda had also pledged their political backing.
Reflecting on past outcomes, he said, “The delimitation process prior to the 2012 elections resulted in a significant shift of voters, which led to my setback and subsequent loss. In 2017, my opponent secured victory based on false promises. The residents of Fatorda have now recognised the need for change, and that change favours BJP.”
Naik further said constituents were disillusioned by misinformation spread within the area, specifically citing arbitrary zoning changes in various locations.
Although he stated that the Velankanni pilgrimage was a private initiative and not politically motivated or timed for the elections, critics remain sceptical about it.
The Fatorda seat has emerged as a focal point of the electoral battle. With Goa Pradesh Congress Committee chief Girish Chodankar and Naik both likely to challenge Sardesai, a significant triangular contest is anticipated.
Political parties are expected to place special emphasis on the constituency, with further clarity likely to emerge as the election date approaches.