BJP-backed candidates win polls to two civic bodies in Goa

In Sanquelim, the home turf of Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, the BJP-backed panel won 11 out of 12 seats, while one candidate affiliated with the Congress was elected unopposed. In Ponda, out of 15 seats, the candidates supported by the BJP won 11 seats while four other candidates won the remaining seats.

Hailing the ‘decisive’ victory, Sawant tweeted: “Heartfelt gratitude to the people of Sankhali and Ponda for giving Bharatiya Janata Party a decisive victory in the municipal polls.”

“I deeply cherish the blessings of people of Sankhali and Ponda for the massive win in the municipal polls. Congratulations to the victorious candidates for the marvelous mandate. Let us continue to take forward the vision of the Hon’ble PM for Antyodaya,” he added.

Goa BJP president Sadanand Shet Tanavade attributed the victory to the tireless efforts of party workers. “Voters have been supporting the BJP because of its development policies in the state. People in Sankhali and Ponda have shown their faith in the BJP. Voters will give both the seats to the BJP in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections 2024,” he added.

Ponda reported 74.65 per cent turnout and Sanquelim registered 87.56 per cent polling in the civic elections held Friday.