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Unfolding 60 Years of Political Process in Goa
Discussions on the concept of independence and liberation are essential in the democratisation of politics in Goa. The foundation of Goa’s electoral politics stems from the politics of liberation championed by the first Chief Minister of Goa, Dayanand Bandodkar. This article traces this history till the present, identifying the key phases in Goa’s politics.
The authors gratefully acknowledge the helpful comments and suggestions from the anonymous referee.
Goa voted for the 14th legislative assembly on 14 February 2022 in the aftermath of the 60th anniversary of liberation from the Portuguese rule. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), known for pushing forward nationalism and patriotism, has comfortably managed to complete two consecutive terms since 2012. However, it appears that the nationalist discourse is on the back foot in the state. When “azadi ka amrut mahotsav”—the 75th anniversary of India’s independence—is being widely celebrated across the state, the celebration of the 60th anniversary of Goa’s liberation has rarely gained momentum in public spaces. It seems the glories of independence illuminate patriotism, while the stories of liberation haunt the political elites. Therefore, it is consequential to unfold the 60 years of the political process in Goa.
In this article, we try to explore how the political elites adjust the political process for their convenience. However, it also examines the logical differences between the concepts of independence and liberation as well as the phases of postcolonial transitions. Finally, we reflect on the issues that influence the February 2022 legislative assembly elections.
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