Panaji Municipal Elections Scheduled for March 11 with 30 Wards Up for Grabs
The State Election Commission officially declared on Monday that elections for 30 wards of the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) will be held on March 11, with the crucial vote counting set to take place on March 13. This announcement sets the stage for a significant democratic exercise in the capital city of Goa, marking a pivotal moment in local governance.
Voter Demographics and Electoral Framework
A total of 32,496 eligible voters are registered to cast their ballots in these CCP elections, comprising 15,225 males and 17,271 females. The electoral process will be facilitated through 48 specially designated polling booths across the city. Although the CCP elections are traditionally conducted without formal party symbols, major political factions actively support and endorse various panels, adding a layer of strategic competition to the race.
Political Statements and Campaign Promises
Revenue Minister and Panaji MLA Atanasio ‘Babush’ Monserrate expressed strong confidence in his panel's prospects, citing a historical track record of success. "Last time, we secured 25 seats, and this election, we are poised to achieve a clean sweep of all 30 wards," Monserrate declared. He emphasized the developmental work undertaken by current Panaji Mayor Rohit, urging voters to support his panel based on this performance. Monserrate also framed the CCP elections as a critical test of his political strength ahead of upcoming state assembly elections, noting, "There will always be opposition, but this contest provides an opportunity to gauge public support."
In contrast, Utpal Parrikar, who previously contested against Monserrate in assembly elections, announced his intention to field a panel with a distinct vision for Panaji. "The current council lacks effective dialogue on city issues. We aim to introduce meaningful change and are confident that residents will rally behind our candidates," Parrikar stated.
Adding to the political dynamics, State Congress president Amit Patkar revealed plans for a united opposition panel to challenge the Monserrate-backed group, aiming to consolidate anti-incumbency votes.
Election Regulations and Additional Byelections
State Election Commissioner Menino D'Souza outlined key regulatory measures for the polls. The maximum expenditure limit for any candidate contesting a CCP ward has been fixed at Rs 2.5 lakh. D'Souza confirmed that the model code of conduct is now in effect across Panaji, with all necessary logistical and security arrangements finalized. "Adequate police deployment has been organized, and the government is advised to refrain from making major announcements specific to CCP areas during this period," he added.
In a related development, the SEC also announced byelections for 14 wards across various village panchayats, scheduled for March 8, with counting on March 9. These local polls underscore the broader electoral activity in Goa this season.
The last CCP elections were conducted on March 20, 2021, making this upcoming vote a key event in the city's political calendar, with outcomes likely to influence future governance and policy directions in Panaji.
