Mapusa: For the first time in more than two decades, the BJP’s Mapusa constituency is witnessing internal unrest. Once represented by former deputy chief minister Francis D’Souza, who regularly won by margins of over 10,000 votes, the seat is now at the centre of a power struggle within the party.Current MLA Joshua D’Souza is facing increasing anti-incumbency, dissatisfaction among party workers and criticism over pending projects.According to sources, tensions escalated after a closed-door dinner meeting on Friday attended by senior BJP functionaries, ministers and core committee members. A local entrepreneur reportedly emerged as the preferred choice, suggesting that the party is considering new faces based on recent internal surveys.Three-time Mapusa Municipal Council chairperson Sandeep Falari formally staked claim to the party ticket on Friday. Citing his 25 years of public service and experience on various state planning boards, Falari said he was confident the party will give him an opportunity to contest.With Falari entering the race, the number of major aspirants has risen to five, including Mayur Sawkar, Guruprasad Pawaskar and Rajsingh Rane.Political observers said Mapusa was long seen as a BJP stronghold where electoral victories were almost taken for granted. but now it will face a challenge in managing competing ambitions ahead of the elections.“With the cadre openly demanding alternative leadership and multiple heavyweights throwing their hats into the ring, the BJP leadership faces its toughest balancing act yet,” said a source.
