Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, Oct 25: The Congress in Goa has sought to cool growing speculation over a possible Opposition alliance, days after the Narkasur effigy competition in Fatorda turned into an unexpected display of political togetherness among leaders from the Congress, Revolutionary Goans Party (RGP), and Goa Forward Party (GFP).

In what appeared to be a move to rein in premature alliance talk, Congress media cell functionary Divyakumar issued an advisory on social media urging party leaders to refrain from public comments regarding political tie-ups. Sharing a video on ‘X’ featuring GPCC president Amit Patkar and South Goa MP Viriato Fernandes, he wrote: “All is well. The final decision regarding the alliance will come at the right time by the party. Until then, all Congress workers should focus on strengthening the party and not get distracted by rumours or speculation from other parties.”

The message was widely interpreted as a directive for party cadres to prioritize grassroots strengthening over speculation, reflecting the Congress’s intent to avoid the pitfalls of hastily formed or poorly managed alliances of the past.

The buzz around a potential Opposition unity gained momentum after Congress MLAs Yuri Alemao, Leader of the Opposition, and Altone D’Costa were seen sharing the stage with RGP’s Manoj Parab and GFP chief Vijai Sardesai at the Fatorda event. The gathering was perceived by some as a soft launch of a united front to take on the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the 2027 polls.

While political observers see such an alliance as a strategic necessity to challenge the BJP’s dominance, the Congress leadership remains cautious. The BJP, meanwhile, has dismissed the event as a mere “photo-op,” with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant downplaying its political significance — though some suggest the ruling party is quietly watchful of evolving Opposition dynamics.

Analysts point out that any Opposition front in Goa will face significant ideological and strategic hurdles. The RGP, with its regionalist plank, has frequently clashed with the Congress on issues of identity and governance, while the GFP — once a BJP ally — continues to chart a volatile course.

Bringing these diverse forces under one umbrella will require a shared vision and disciplined coordination, not just symbolic unity. In this context, Divyakumar’s cautionary stance appears strategic, ensuring the Congress remains focused on internal strengthening rather than speculative coalition building.

For now, the Fatorda moment stands as a symbolic gesture rather than the birth of a formal alliance. The real test of Opposition unity may emerge in the run-up to the Zilla Parishad elections scheduled for December 13.