Team Goemkarponn
PERNEM: Speculation over the political future of Mandrem MLA Jit Arolkar has intensified, with discussions growing in Pernem over a possible move by the MGP legislator to the BJP.
The buzz followed Arolkar’s presence at Manohar International Airport in Mopa, where he welcomed Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Arolkar, however, said his presence at the airport was purely in response to a request from Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant.
Arolkar said Sawant had informed him about Fadnavis’ arrival and asked him to be present at Mopa to receive the Maharashtra Chief Minister. He maintained that no political message should be attached to the meeting.
Asked whether he was considering joining the BJP, Arolkar stopped short of giving a clear answer.
“I am currently with the MGP. The right decision will be taken at the right time and after taking everyone into confidence,” he said.
The MGP MLA was similarly non-committal when questioned about the possibility of contesting from Mandrem if the constituency is allotted to the BJP under a future MGP-BJP seat-sharing arrangement.
Arolkar said the question of seat allocation and candidates would have to be settled by the leadership of both parties. He said senior leaders and party presidents would jointly discuss the arrangement before any decision is announced.
Rather than committing himself to a particular party, Arolkar stressed the importance of the electorate in determining his next move. He said the views of Mandrem voters, party workers and supporters would be taken into consideration before he makes a decision.
He also pointed out that he has never publicly claimed that he would contest the next election on the ticket of any particular party.
On the possible roles of former Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar and former MLA Dayanand Sopte, Arolkar described both as senior and experienced politicians. He said he expected them to respect an alliance decision and support its candidate if an MGP-BJP alliance is finalised and he is chosen to contest from Mandrem.
Arolkar also criticised leaders who, according to him, are already positioning themselves for the Mandrem ticket. He said winning an election ultimately depends on the confidence of the electorate rather than assurances given by individual leaders or parties.
“The people of Mandrem decide who becomes the MLA,” he said.
Pointing to the development works carried out in the constituency during his tenure, Arolkar said he believed he had retained the backing of the local population.
