Team Goemkarponn
PONDA: Roy Ravi Naik’s decision to step down as a councillor of the Ponda Municipal Council has set off fresh speculation over his political plans, particularly amid growing talk of a possible Assembly contest from Marcaim.
Roy continues to remain aligned with the BJP, even as political discussions around the Naik family’s electoral plans gather momentum. His elder brother, Ritesh Naik, had been named the BJP’s candidate for the Ponda Assembly by-election before the proposed election was put on hold at the last moment.
Roy, meanwhile, has in recent days spoken about his interest in contesting from Marcaim, a constituency that has a strong political connection with his family and was previously represented by his father.
Any move by Roy towards Marcaim, however, would come against the backdrop of an established political force in the constituency. MGP leader Sudin Dhavalikar continues to exercise considerable influence there, making any attempt to alter the existing political equation a closely watched development.
Adding to the speculation are reports that Dhavalikar could seek a BJP ticket for his son, Mithil Dhavalikar, in Marcaim, while Dhavalikar himself could look towards Ponda. If these possibilities materialise, they could significantly reshape the political contest across both constituencies.
Against this backdrop, Roy’s resignation from the municipal council has become a talking point. The resignation, by itself, does not confirm an Assembly bid, but its timing has inevitably raised questions about whether he is preparing for a larger political role.
The bigger question now is what prompted Roy to give up his municipal position at this stage. If his sights are indeed set on the Assembly election, the resignation could be an early indication of preparations for the electoral battle.
