Team Goemkarponn
PONDA: The Ponda Block Congress Committee has strongly objected to the proposed induction of Dr. Ketan Bhatikar into the Congress party, expressing “deep concern and discontent” over reports that he may be considered for the party ticket in the upcoming Ponda Assembly by-election.
In a letter dated February 19, 2026, addressed to AICC Goa in-charge Manikrao Thakare and routed through GPCC President Amit Patkar, block office-bearers and grassroots workers alleged that the move bypasses the democratic process and disregards the sentiments of local party workers.
The committee also questioned the consultation process, stating that Dr. Bhatikar had publicly announced on social media that he would join the Congress on February 24 at 3:30 pm — even before any formal discussion with the Ponda Block Committee. This, they said, has “aggravated the frustration and anger” among workers who feel disrespected.
The block unit has demanded that the promised meeting with party leadership be convened within two days in the presence of the AICC Goa in-charge to allow workers to present their objections directly.
Citing reasons for opposing the induction, the committee highlighted the contribution of Congress leader Rajesh Verenkar, who secured 6,700 votes in the 2022 Assembly elections and lost by a margin of 690 votes in a three-cornered contest. They also noted that the party improved its performance in Ponda during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, securing 8,500 votes for Congress candidate Capt. Viriato Fernandes.
The letter further raised concerns over Dr. Bhatikar’s alleged ideological leanings and past associations with RSS-linked figures and leaders from parties allied with the BJP. It also questioned his political loyalty, pointing to his recent resignation from the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) after being denied a ticket.
The block committee warned that inducting leaders from rival political backgrounds could damage the Congress party’s credibility in Goa and risk internal instability, particularly in light of past defections of Congress MLAs to the BJP.
