2 Congress MLAs join BJP, 3 more said to be in queue |
Two Goa Congress lawmakers met BJP president Amit Shah in Delhi and quit today, ending the party`s razor thin edge in the 40-member assembly. The party has been reduced from 16 to 14 and is now evenly matched with the BJP, which is trying to hold its coalition together as Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar battles a pancreatic condition. Subhash Shirodkar and Dayanand Sopte, who flew to Delhi late last night, faxed their resignation letters to Speaker Pramod Sawant. By Tuesday evening, they were with the BJP. Dayanand Sopte and Subhash Shirodkar left for Delhi late on Monday night and, until their meeting with Amit Shah, had been very secretive despite speculation about their party swap.We expect two-three more legislators to come (with us), not today but in the coming days, Subhash Shirodkar was quoted as telling news agency ANI after his meeting with the BJP president.The Congress expressed shock. Both lawmakers were part of a Congress meet held to discuss the political situation arising out of Mr Parrikar`s health.. It is alleged that the two were intimidated by Amit Shah and poached by Goa Health Minister Vishwajit Rane, who is seen to be aiming for the Chief Minister`s post in case Manohar Parrikar steps down over his poor health.
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