*MGP leader asserts party’s alliance position, expresses confidence on ST reservation before 2027 and clarifies Ponda office and Caranzalem power connection issues
Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Power Minister and MGP leader Sudin Dhavalikar has questioned BJP MLA Govind Gaude’s authority to speak on matters concerning the BJP-MGP alliance, while also backing his son Mithil Dhavalikar for the Madkai Assembly ticket ahead of the 2027 elections.
Dhavalikar said the MGP is part of the alliance and will respect its principles, but questioned whether Gaude has the authority to speak on alliance-related matters.
“The BJP has its Core Committee and Executive Committee, which are the appropriate forums to speak on the alliance,” Dhavalikar said.
On the upcoming Assembly elections, Dhavalikar said he would ensure that Mithil Dhavalikar gets the election ticket from Madkai if he wishes to contest from the constituency.
“If he wishes to contest from another constituency, we will consider the matter at that time,” he said.
The statement comes as political parties begin preparations for the February 2027 Assembly elections, with ticket discussions and alliance equations gaining importance.
Dhavalikar also expressed confidence that political reservation for the Scheduled Tribe community can be ensured in Goa before the 2027 Assembly elections.
He said a motion should be moved during the upcoming Assembly session to ensure ST reservation in the state. According to Dhavalikar, the Central Government has provided constitutional rights to the ST community, and he is confident that the process can be completed before the elections.
Dhavalikar said he would refrain from commenting on the legal aspects of the issue, which he said could be clarified by advocates.
Clarifying the controversy surrounding an office opened in Ponda, Dhavalikar said the premises belongs to the Madhavrao Dhavalikar Trust and has no connection with any political party.
“Ponda is a commercial centre, and we work there from morning to evening as a trust. It has nothing to do with politics,” he said.
Dhavalikar also said the Electricity Department has provisions for providing temporary power connections to roadside stalls and carts.
He said such connections can be provided after collecting a ₹10,000 security deposit and ensuring that all prescribed safety requirements are met.
“I will have to check whether the food cart at Caranzalem has followed all the prescribed procedures or not,” Dhavalikar said.
