Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The continuation of the Goa Legislative Assembly’s Budget Session has come under discussion following the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for the upcoming Ponda by-election. Speaker Ganesh Gaonkar on Monday emphasized that the Election Commission of India (ECI) cannot impose terms on the Assembly, amid concerns over whether ministers can make announcements or financial assurances during the session.
The issue was raised by Goa Forward Party MLA Vijai Sardesai, who cited a letter from the ECI directing the enforcement of the MCC in the Ponda constituency and the wider South Goa district. Sardesai stressed that allowing ministers to make statements during the session while the MCC is in effect could compromise electoral fairness and disrupt a level playing field.
“Discussions on Demands for Grants and replies to Legislative Assembly Questions often involve financial implications. Any ministerial assurances during this period could potentially violate the MCC,” Sardesai said, urging Speaker Gaonkar to ensure that ministers refrain from statements that may influence voters.
Responding to the concerns, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said the government would take a decision by the afternoon after consulting the Advocate General and Chief Secretary. He noted that a strict interpretation of the MCC could prevent the government from passing bills or giving budget-related assurances during the session.
Minister Digambar Kamat also weighed in, reiterating that the Assembly is supreme and highlighting the importance of passing the state Budget before March 31. He suggested that the House could explore precedents from other states to navigate the situation.
The MCC came into effect following the announcement of the by-election in Ponda, with polling scheduled for April 9 and counting on May 4. The current Budget Session of the Goa Assembly is set to conclude on March 27.
