"The whole idea of taking up (forming) this alliance is not because anybody has any personal agenda. Look at the results in other states where BJP has won, it is only because of division of opposition votes," Rane, an MLA representing Valpoi constituency, told reporters yesterday.
Responding to an announcement by Goa Congress chief Luizinho Faleiro that they will go alone in the next state polls, he said, "In Goa, the Congress party, whoever may be the leader, no single leader can decide what the party wants."
Reacting to Aam Aadmi Party's plans to contest Goa polls, the former state minister said it would be foolish to underestimate the Arvind Kejriwal-led party.
"Underestimation of AAP is also a foolishness on our part. One cannot underestimate AAP. No opposition force can be underestimated," he said.
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Making a pitch to join hands with parties like Goa Forward and NCP, Rane said these factions should come together for the cause of a better Goa.
Meanwhile, Goa Forward party welcomed Rane's suggestions.
"Goa Forward party will take the lead to bring all secular forces together with the only aim and mission to have 'BJP-mukt' (BJP free) Goa," party spokesman Durgadas Kamat said.
"Those secular forces who do not want to be part of grand alliance will be clearly termed as the B team of BJP," he said.
Congress was reduced to single digit in the 2012 Goa Assembly elections.
The party currently has nine legislators, one of whom (Atanasio Monserratte) has already been expelled for anti-party activities, leaving them with only eight MLAs.