PANAJI: The BJP's victory in Panaji should have been one of the most celebrated wins in Goa. Utpal Parrikar, son of former BJP chief minister Manohar Parrikar, had contested independently in Panaji against BJP candidate Atanasio Monserrate (Babush). Manohar Parrikar's son, who played a pivotal role in the growth of the BJP in Goa, was ignored and Parrikar's biggest political enemy, Babush, a former Congress minister, was given the seat which was a cause for major controversy.

Although Babush won against Utpal Parrikar, his happiness was not evident on his face after the results were declared. Babush said he is unhappy that many BJP workers in the constituency did not vote for him. He said that he had discussed the matter with the party leadership.

Before the elections, Utpal asked for Panaji seat but the BJP leadership said that he can be given another seat insread of it. Utpal didn't agree to this. Following this, he decided to contest independently from Panaji. Babush thinks that Utpal's independent cadidacy has reduced his majority.