Joao Sousa M | NT
VELIM
Lack of development and improvement of basic infrastructure remains the core issue in Velim constituency which constitutes 27,907 voters who have a choice aplenty with as many as 12 candidates, the highest number in the 2017 elections, trying their electoral fortunes from the constituency.
While former water resources minister Filipe Neri Rodrigues is looking to make a comeback after losing the 2012 elections, present MLA Benjamin Silva is hoping to retain the seat to be able to continue the works initiated by him.
Silva, who is contesting as independent this time, is banking on development plank that works to the tune of Rs 200 crore have been initiated with the help of the BJP government.
While development is an ongoing process, the people have acknowledged the work he has carried out in one term which was not carried out for several decades.
Compared to 2012, Silva has lost a lot of ground in villages of Chinchinim, Sarzora, Dramapur and Sao Jose de Areal that could dent his prospects of getting reelected.
Things are not easy for the former footballer-turned politician as the BJP government, he supported for development, has fielded Vinay Tari against him, who claims that no work has been carried out in the constituency and that Velim segment lacks basic infrastructure with water and electricity being the major issues faced by the people.
However, BJP may not have a significant impact on the overall results due to lack of party cadre at the grassroots.
On the other hand, former minister Rodrigues, who represented Velim for three consecutive terms, is eying a comeback and hopeful that the people will give him another chance.
Rodrigues, however, could face a tough fight from former zilla panchayat member Anthony Rodrigues (Babush), who is contesting on Goa Forward Party ticket and who has managed to make inroads in the Congress strongholds.
Babush is banking on his rapport with people that he developed during his tenure as ZP member and has been able to build on support from panchayat members from Chinchinim, Assolna and surrounding areas.
The Aam Aadmi Party, which was the first to set the ball rolling in preparation for the February 4 election with a former Ambelim sarpanch Cruz Silva as its candidate, has managed to build a momentum with two rounds of door-to door campaigning.
The party is hopeful that efforts of the dedicated volunteers will ensure passage of Cruz Silva to the assembly.
Social and RTI activist Dominic Noronha, who is contesting on Goa Su-Raj Party, is relying on youth support for electoral success. However, due to lack of party base at the grassroots level, the Goa Su-Raj Party and other parties including the NCP, Ambedkar Party of India could end up putting up a poor show.
Velim constituency also has the highest number of independents contesting the election, however, there could be no surprises this time around.