NEW DELHI: The political landscape in Goa has long been characterised by the dominance of national parties such as the BJP and Congress. The 2019 Lok Sabha Elections saw each of these parties securing one seat, signaling a competitive atmosphere for the upcoming election cycle.
With the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections approaching, all eyes are on Goa as it becomes a crucial battleground, reflecting the national mood amidst growing anti-incumbency sentiments and the possibility of regional parties making significant gains in the state assembly polls.
According to the Election Commission‘s declared schedule, Goa is set to vote in a single phase on May 7th for its two Lok Sabha constituencies.
In recent years, Goa has seen the emergence of regional parties such as the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) and the Goa Forward Party (GFP). These parties have strategically positioned themselves to resonate with local sentiments, potentially reshaping the political dynamics and playing a significant role in shaping the composition of the central government.
The ruling BJP has already declared its candidates for the North Goa seat, nominating Shripad Naik, and for the South Goa seat, nominating Pallavi Dempo. Whereas, the Congress on Saturday announced the candidacy of former Union minister Ramakant Khalap and Viriato Fernandes for the North and South Goa Lok Sabha seats, respectively.
The North Goa seat has been held by the ruling BJP since 1999, establishing it as a stronghold for the party. In contrast, South Goa, with its significant Christian population, has largely favored the Congress, although it has also been won by the BJP and regional parties on occasion.
With the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections approaching, all eyes are on Goa as it becomes a crucial battleground, reflecting the national mood amidst growing anti-incumbency sentiments and the possibility of regional parties making significant gains in the state assembly polls.
According to the Election Commission‘s declared schedule, Goa is set to vote in a single phase on May 7th for its two Lok Sabha constituencies.
In recent years, Goa has seen the emergence of regional parties such as the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) and the Goa Forward Party (GFP). These parties have strategically positioned themselves to resonate with local sentiments, potentially reshaping the political dynamics and playing a significant role in shaping the composition of the central government.
The ruling BJP has already declared its candidates for the North Goa seat, nominating Shripad Naik, and for the South Goa seat, nominating Pallavi Dempo. Whereas, the Congress on Saturday announced the candidacy of former Union minister Ramakant Khalap and Viriato Fernandes for the North and South Goa Lok Sabha seats, respectively.
The North Goa seat has been held by the ruling BJP since 1999, establishing it as a stronghold for the party. In contrast, South Goa, with its significant Christian population, has largely favored the Congress, although it has also been won by the BJP and regional parties on occasion.
PHASE | CONSTITUENCIES | DATE |
Phase III | North Goa, South Goa | May 7 |