Goans who had voted for change lived it up on Tuesday, converting the streets to dance floors and keeping the fun and frolic quotient of the state intact. From fisherfolk to the gentry in three-piece suits, thousands grooved to the Tanglish rage Kolaveri Di’s Konkani remix.
At Salgaonkar Law College, where the counting took place for 23 seats of North Goa, those on the winning side burst crackers and distributed sweets. When the spirited ones flaunted their beer bottles, elders reined them in with a reminder — “Ours is a party with a difference”.
Vanquished supporters of rival parties, who had lingered around too long in the hope of a turnaround, were occasionally booed.
“Parrikar, it is your win,” read a banner at a vantage point in the city. Muslim taxi driver Aafiz has pinned his hopes on BJP’s man of the moment, Manohar Parrikar. “We want more development and investment so that our children can find better opportunities.”
Trader Rameshwar Naik said, “Public anger has exploded in style. People won’t tolerate the corrupt and jumping jacks any more.”
Goans want Parrikar to protect their interests, especially when ‘outsiders’ are buying large tracts of land and lording over business. In Parrikar, they also see a crusader against illegal mining.
{{/usCountry}}Goans want Parrikar to protect their interests, especially when ‘outsiders’ are buying large tracts of land and lording over business. In Parrikar, they also see a crusader against illegal mining.
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