Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The upcoming March 11 elections to the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) are shaping up to be a direct contest between Revenue Minister Babush Monserrate’s panel and a newly formed citizens’ platform, Ami Panjekar, led by Utpal Parrikar.
The announcement of the new front has intensified the political atmosphere in the capital city, setting the stage for a closely fought battle.
Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, Utpal — son of former Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar — unveiled the formation of the panel in the presence of former mayor Surendra Furtado, former councillor Menino D’Cruz, Vaidehi Naik and Dattaprasad Naik.
Utpal said the initiative was aimed at ending what he described as Monserrate’s “one-man dominance” over city affairs and ensuring improved civic infrastructure and services for residents.
“Our platform brings together people cutting across political lines. The focus is to secure better facilities and governance for Panaji,” he said.
The group also introduced its logo and banner, with Utpal claiming that the front has drawn support from diverse quarters, including Congress sympathisers. Notably, Menino D’Cruz, currently associated with the Congress, has aligned with the new formation. Surendra Furtado, who has previously had differences with Utpal, has also come on board.
Utpal maintained that the alliance reflects a united stand against what he termed administrative mismanagement.
In a strategic move, Ami Panjekar has chosen not to reveal its list of candidates yet. Utpal said the names have been finalised but will only be disclosed closer to the nomination deadline to prevent undue pressure or attempts at influencing candidates.
On the contentious issue of casinos, he stated that any decisions would be guided strictly by municipal laws. He emphasised that casino revenues must be utilised responsibly and asserted that the CCP holds the power to regulate or, if necessary, shut down such establishments.
Utpal further outlined key concerns affecting the city, including inadequate parking, pollution, and unfinished Smart City projects. He pledged that the panel would address these challenges through accountable and transparent governance.
Recalling his independent bid in the 2022 Assembly elections, Utpal said he had garnered considerable backing despite limited preparation time. Expressing confidence ahead of the civic polls, he said the people of Panaji continue to repose faith in him.
