Ponda: Even as efforts are reportedly underway within the BJP to ensure an unopposed election for Ritesh Naik in the upcoming Ponda by-election, BJP leader and municipal councillor Apurv Dalvi has publicly announced his intent to seek the party ticket, asserting that he can carry forward the legacy of late minister Ravi Naik.
In an exclusive interview with Goa News Hub Editor-in-Chief Rupesh Samant, Dalvi said that the BJP had assured him of candidature in the next election following the 2022 Assembly polls. Expressing confidence, he stated, “I am sure the party will keep its word and entrust me with the responsibility to represent Ponda.”
Dalvi said that the developmental works initiated by the late Ravi Naik had deeply influenced him. “The legacy of late Ravi Naik needs to be continued through the social work he began. I have been closely associated with him and deeply respect the mass contact he built over the years,” Dalvi told GNH.
Countering the Congress’s claim that Naik could bring progress to Ponda only during his time as a Congress MLA, Dalvi remarked, “The Congress may have constructed buildings like the ID hospital and sports complex, but it was the BJP that introduced modern infrastructure and improved facilities.”
Taking a jibe at Dr. Ketan Bhatikar, Dalvi said the political dynamics in Ponda have changed since 2022. “Those who were 13 years old then are now voters. The younger generation is with the BJP. Dr. Bhatikar should not take pride in his narrow defeat of 77 votes because the difference will be much wider this time,” he added confidently.
The full interview, which delves into Ponda’s political landscape and Dalvi’s future plans, will be released soon on GNH’s YouTube channel.
