Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: In a statement that has sparked internal discussion within the Congress ahead of the elections to the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP), Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) president Amit Patkar said that Utpal Parrikar, son of late Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, must clearly spell out his ideological position vis-à-vis the BJP.
Patkar’s remarks come in the wake of Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao’s recent announcement that the Congress would extend support to a panel led by Utpal Parrikar for the upcoming CCP elections. Responding to questions from the media on whether such a move could have ideological consequences for the party, Patkar reiterated that the Congress is engaged in a direct ideological battle against the BJP.
He clarified that although CCP elections are not officially contested on party symbols, the Congress would only associate with individuals who share its values. “Our fight is against the BJP. For the CCP polls, the Congress will support only like-minded people,” Patkar said.
When asked specifically about the possibility of a tie-up with Parrikar and its ideological fallout, Patkar asserted that the Congress would firmly oppose any BJP-supported panel in the civic elections. He added that it was important for Parrikar to clearly state where he stands ideologically, as the Congress has drawn a clear line against the BJP.
“There is a sharp ideological divide between the Congress and the BJP. There will be no friendly contests anymore. In this context, Utpal Parrikar must make his position clear, because the Congress’ stand is unambiguously anti-BJP,” Patkar stated.
His comments have reportedly led to deliberations within party circles, with senior leaders debating whether Alemao’s statement on supporting Parrikar’s panel reflected a personal view or an officially approved party position. Some leaders have also questioned the political gains of backing a Parrikar-led panel, and whether such support would translate into future political reciprocity for the Congress.
Meanwhile, responding to remarks made by Quepem MLA Altone D’Costa, Patkar said that while he shares a close personal bond with the legislator, his responsibility as GPCC president requires him to take a broader, statewide perspective—especially on the sensitive issue of forging alliances with non-BJP political forces.
Patkar emphasized that decisions on alliances must be guided by the larger interests of the party and its ideological commitments, rather than individual opinions.
