PANAJI: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has brushed aside Opposition criticism and expressed confidence that the BJP will retain power in Goa in the 2027 Assembly elections.
Speaking to a local television channel, Sawant said his focus remains on the welfare of Goans rather than Opposition attacks. He announced that the government plans to increase the remuneration under the Griha Aadhar and DSSY schemes, with details expected to be announced soon.
Rejecting claims of anti-incumbency, Sawant said Goa was witnessing “pro-incumbency”, citing infrastructure development and youth-focused initiatives under the BJP-led double-engine government.
Comparing the BJP government to a “fast train,” Sawant said there would be “no coming back once you sit” and asserted that the party is on course for another victory in 2027.
On Opposition unity, Sawant said he was not concerned about whether rival parties were united or divided. According to him, voters would ultimately assess the government based on its five-year performance and compare it with previous administrations.
“I don’t care whether they are united or divided,” he said.
Sawant also highlighted his cordial relations with MLAs across party lines, saying every legislator represents the people of their respective constituencies.
On BJP ticket distribution, the Chief Minister clarified that candidate selection was not his individual decision. He said the party follows an organisational process and that winnability remains an important consideration. He also pointed out that political parties routinely introduce new candidates during elections.
Defending the Staff Selection Commission, Sawant ruled out any rollback, calling it a firm policy decision aimed at bringing greater transparency to government recruitment.
On alliance partner MGP, Sawant said the party should remain with the BJP-led NDA, noting that it currently has only two MLAs. He also questioned the need for the MGP to conduct surveys in constituencies beyond its existing strength.
Addressing the demand to make Marathi a state language, Sawant said Goa’s existing language arrangement should not be changed. He reiterated that Konkani is the state language, while Marathi has the status of a co-language.
On the controversial Section 39A, Sawant maintained that his government is transparent and said the issue should have been properly addressed in the Assembly. He assured that he would take a decision in Goa’s interest and said, “There will be a solution on 39A.”
