"I wish I could fight Parrikar. I have a feeling that I would even defeat Parrikar. For me it makes no difference, I am fighting from Panaji. I hope Centre sends Parrikar down to fight the election with me. At least my wish would be completed," Monserratte told PTI after he announced his intention to align with the Congress for the polls through his newly formed outfit - United Goans Party.
Monserratte said he would be contesting the upcoming assembly elections from Panaji constituency.
"As far as I am concerned, I am here to fight this election from Panaji constituency. I assure you, I will win this election by more than 3,000 votes," Monserratte said.
The legislator representing St Cruz constituency was expelled this year from Congress party due to anti-party activities during a by-election in Panaji constituency, which was held after Parrikar landed the Central job.
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Monserratte, whose wife is a Congress MLA from Taleigao constituency, said he had proved his mettle in Panaji when the panel fielded by him won three elections of the civic body Corporation of City of Panaji.
"It clearly shows that people are unhappy the way BJP is functioning. I believe the Corporation as well as Panaji MLA should work hand in hand," he said.
The legislator said the state polls would be fought on development issues.
"I am not going to start in a big scale. I would field
candidates from a few seats," he said.
Monserratte claimed thathe is in talks with Congress party for alliance during upcoming Goa polls.
"I am trying to see, If there can be some seat sharing arrangement, if it not..Then also its fine with me. I have asked for a couple of seats. I have put up my proposal before Congress party. I do not have any ill feeling," he said.