In a sharp political critique following the recent Zilla Panchayat polls in Goa, the Congress party has squarely blamed the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for facilitating the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) victory. Manikrao Thakare, the Congress' in-charge for Goa, asserted that AAP's decision to contest widely acted as a vote-splitter, ultimately benefiting the ruling alliance.
AAP Played 'B-team' Role, Says Congress Leader
Manikrao Thakare did not mince words on Tuesday, directly accusing AAP of being the "actual B-team of BJP." This accusation turns the tables on AAP's own campaign rhetoric, where its leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi, had frequently labeled Congress as the BJP's subsidiary. Thakare pointed to the election results on December 22 as definitive proof.
"The multi-cornered fights created by AAP's widespread contesting clearly split anti-BJP votes in several seats, paving the way for BJP's massive victory," Thakare stated. He emphasized that the people of Goa had wisely rejected AAP's divisive politics and instead strengthened the principal opposition force, which is the Congress.
Decoding the Zilla Panchayat Election Verdict
The electoral numbers tell a compelling story. The BJP and its ally, the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), secured a commanding victory by winning 32 out of the 50 seats. The Congress party significantly improved its position, increasing its tally from the previous 4 seats to 10 seats. In stark contrast, the AAP, despite fielding candidates in over 40 constituencies, managed to win only a single seat.
Thakare highlighted this stark disparity as evidence of AAP's failure to connect with voters and its unintended role in aiding the BJP. "This proves who the actual 'B-team' is. Goa has understood the game and voted for change!" he exclaimed.
Congress Sees Momentum for 2027 Assembly Polls
Beyond the criticism, Thakare framed the outcome as a positive sign for Congress's resurgence in the state. He described the party's performance as strong and encouraging, particularly noting its reinforced grassroots presence in South Goa. He interpreted the mandate as a clear reflection of public anger against the BJP's governance.
"This mandate reflects public discontent with BJP misrule, rampant corruption, and failure on jobs, environment, and cost of living," Thakare said. Expressing confidence, he declared that this growing momentum would propel the Congress to a decisive win in the crucial 2027 Goa Assembly elections.
"Congress is prepared to deliver a government that truly works for all. Together, we will reclaim Goa!" Thakare concluded, setting the stage for the upcoming political battles in the coastal state.
