Team Goemkarponn
SANCOALE: President of the Shree Shantadurga Laxmi Narsinva Sankhalyo temple and former BJP general secretary of the Cortalim Mandal, Achut Naik, has formally expressed his intention to contest the upcoming Zilla Panchayat elections from Sancoale. Naik, a well-known businessman and social worker, said he is keen to contest on a BJP ticket and is awaiting the party’s decision.
Speaking to reporters, Naik said he had received significant encouragement from residents and party workers in Sancoale. “People have been approaching me consistently and urging me to contest as the BJP candidate,” he said, adding that his decision is driven by public demand rather than personal ambition.
Naik highlighted his long association with various institutions, including the Mormugao Planning and Development Authority, and his current role in the BJP Cortalim Mandal. He also noted his experience as former director of the Goa Handicrafts,Textiles and Coir department and his involvement in multiple community initiatives over the years.
“I have always tried to serve the people through different platforms, whether through temple administration, civic bodies, or social work,” he said. “My intention to contest the ZP elections is rooted in the belief that I can contribute meaningfully to Sancoale’s development.”
He said his involvement in temple administration, civic bodies and community initiatives has strengthened his understanding of grassroots issues.
“I have always tried to serve society through different platforms, and my intention to contest the ZP elections is rooted in the belief that I can contribute meaningfully to Sancoale’s development,” he said.
Naik added that the public sentiment includes a clear expectation of party loyalty and renewed leadership. “There is also an element of party loyalty because many people are looking for someone who has stood with the BJP through thick and thin, someone who has worked at the grassroots,” he said. “At the same time, there is a strong desire for a change in face for the overall development of the Sancoale ZP constituency. With strong youth support and a solid base, I believe I can strengthen the party’s presence here and stay closely involved in the development that people expect.”
Naik, however, made it clear that while he hopes for a BJP ticket, he will take a final call after considering the sentiments of his supporters. “It will be my sincere effort to contest on a BJP ticket. But if the party decides otherwise, I will have to evaluate the situation based on what the people expect from me. Ultimately, it is the people who decide their representative,” he said.
He added that the BJP has traditionally supported loyal workers and elevated them to key positions. “The party has always upheld principles and backed dedicated karyakartas. I trust that the leadership will take a fair and appropriate decision that reflects the aspirations of the people,” Naik said.
The Sancoale ZP seat is currently held by Anita Thorat, who was elected unopposed in the previous term and now serves as the president of the South Goa Zilla Parishad. With the elections approaching, Naik’s announcement has stirred political interest in the constituency, setting the stage for a potentially competitive contest.
