Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa Forward Party (GFP) has suspended Advocate Amit Sawant following complaints that he was allegedly involved with land mafia networks and individuals connected to the state BJP government. The party cited concerns over land dealings and conversion activities in Mandrem constituency and Pernem taluka, calling the allegations a violation of its core principles ahead of the Zilla Panchayat elections.
Deepak Kalangutkar, President of North Goa District GFP, said that repeated warnings from local residents prompted the party’s decision, emphasizing that the protection of land remains central to GFP’s ideology.
Sawant’s move to join the Congress has sparked a political controversy. Goa Forward President Vijai Sardesai criticized the speed of his acceptance into the party, suggesting it reflected “special affection” from GPCC President Amit Patkar. All three GFP MLAs—Yuri Alemao, Carlose Ferreira, and Altone D’Costa—had opposed Sawant’s entry, with Ferreira highlighting the party’s reservations regarding his background.
However, Manikrao Thakare, AICC Goa Desk in-charge, clarified that Sawant has not been formally granted entry into Congress, stating that he has asked Patkar to block the former Mandrem Sarpanch’s induction. Sawant was previously removed by GFP over alleged involvement in land-related irregularities.
The suspension and the ensuing political tussle underline growing tensions as parties position themselves ahead of local elections, with land issues and party discipline at the center of the debate.
