Waiting for Mr Parrikar

The long absence of the CM and two key ministers has created a peculiar situation in Goa politics

- Prachi Pinglay-Plumber in Panaji

THE monsoon has reached Goa and the state looks lush green and happy. For most politicians, however, the monsoon this time comes with shades of anxiety, given the uncertainty surrounding the imp­ ending assembly session. With three of the state’s ministers indisposed due to medical conditions, including Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, who is in the US for treatment, the Opposition has started mounting a serious attack over the government’s functioning.

The CM, meanwhile, has assured the public through a video message that he will return soon, and his coalition colleagues have told the media he would be back by June 15. Having missed out on almost four months of administrative work, a pile of difficult issues would be awaiting him when he gets back to office.

It all started when Parrikar got admitted to Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai, complaining of a stomach disorder. There are reports that he is undergoing treatment for a serious condition. He managed to return to Goa to hold a curtailed budget session, which would normally run for over three weeks. And before leaving for the US, he formed a Central Advisory Committee (CAC) comprising three senior ministers— Francis D’ Souza of the BJP, Sudin Dhawlikar of the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) and Vijay Sardesai of the Goa Forward Party (GFP).