Congress Goa Unit Voices Strong Opposition to Ex-MGP Leader's Induction
The internal discontent within the Congress party in Goa has escalated significantly over the proposed induction of former Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) functionary Ketan Bhatikar. The Ponda Block Congress Committee has taken a formal stand by writing a strongly worded letter to All India Congress Committee (AICC) Goa in-charge Manikrao Thakre, explicitly opposing Bhatikar's entry into the party ahead of the crucial Ponda assembly byelection.
Letter Highlights Democratic Concerns and Local Sentiment
The letter, which was routed through Goa Pradesh Congress Committee president Amit Patkar, expressed profound "concern and discontent" among block office-bearers and grassroots workers. The committee members alleged that the move to induct Bhatikar completely bypassed the established democratic process within the party and showed a blatant disregard for local party sentiment and opinion.
A major point of contention was Bhatikar's announcement on social media platforms that he would officially join the Congress party on February 24, which occurred before any consultation or discussion with the Ponda Block Committee had taken place. This unilateral announcement was viewed as disrespectful to the local party structure and its decision-making processes.
Concerns Over Political Future and Ideological Credentials
Central to the opposition is the committee's legitimate concern regarding the political future of dedicated Congress functionary Rajesh Verenkar. Verenkar posted a noteworthy and commendable performance in the 2022 Goa Legislative Assembly elections, losing by a remarkably slender margin of just 690 votes in a highly competitive three-cornered contest. The block committee fears that Bhatikar's induction could potentially sideline Verenkar's contributions and future prospects within the party.
The letter also raised serious questions about Bhatikar's ideological credentials and political loyalty, particularly in light of his recent resignation from the MGP. This resignation came immediately after he was denied a ticket by his former party, leading to concerns about whether his move to Congress is driven by genuine ideological alignment or mere political convenience.
Stormy Meeting and Leadership Response
The situation reached a boiling point during the Sanghatan Srijan meeting held in Ponda on Thursday, which turned notably stormy and confrontational. State Congress president Amit Patkar faced a barrage of tough and pointed questions from visibly agitated party workers who demanded answers and accountability.
In response to the mounting pressure, Patkar attempted to pacify the disgruntled workers by making a concrete promise. He committed to organizing a comprehensive block-level meeting within the next two days, which would involve both AICC in-charge Manikrao Thakre and opposition leader Yuri Alemao, to address the concerns directly and seek a resolution.
Verenkar Maintains Personal Friendship Amid Political Tensions
Meanwhile, Congress functionary Rajesh Verenkar sought to downplay the personal dimensions of the conflict. He stated clearly that his personal friendship with Ketan Bhatikar remains completely intact and unaffected by the ongoing political developments. Verenkar emphasized that the move to induct Bhatikar should be viewed as an effort aimed at strengthening the Congress party as a whole, and he explicitly stated that he does not perceive it as "an injustice" directed personally at him.
However, Verenkar exercised considerable caution and refrained from commenting directly on the sensitive issue of the Ponda assembly byelection ticket. He indicated that making any definitive statement on ticket distribution at this juncture would be premature and inappropriate, given the complex political dynamics at play.
The unfolding situation highlights deep-seated tensions within the Congress party's Goa unit as it navigates strategic decisions ahead of the important Ponda byelection, balancing local sentiment with broader political calculations.
