Goa Key Candidate

Son of former Union defence minister and four-time Goa chief minister Manohar Parrikar, Utpal quit the BJP in a huff after the party ignored his claims for a ticket from Panaji, represented by his father since 1994, which went to Atanasio Monserrate instead. A newcomer, Utpal wasn't involved in politics while his father was around, but has earned the support of a core group of BJP supporters who are similarly unhappy with the turn the party has taken after Parrikar's demise. While Utpal has time on his hands, a heavy defeat could set his political career back by several years, but a victory will prompt the BJP to rebuild the bridge with him.