In a swift political maneuver, the Aam Aadmi Party has thrown its hat into the ring for the Ponda assembly by-election in Goa, naming Gitesh Naik as its contender. This announcement follows BJP’s choice of Ritesh Ravi Naik, escalating tensions in what promises to be a fiercely contested battle.
The vacancy arose after the sad demise of Ravi Naik, the seasoned politician and ex-Chief Minister, who succumbed to a heart attack on October 14, 2025. Naik’s defection from Congress to BJP in 2022 flipped the seat, a historic win for the saffron brigade which had long eyed Ponda.
Election Commission has fixed April 9 for voting and May 4 for counting, prompting all parties to accelerate their strategies. Congress counters with Ketan Bhatikar, creating a triangular showdown.
BJP’s decision was finalized in a Delhi meeting under national president Nitin Nabin’s guidance, alongside candidates for by-elections in Koridang (Nagaland), Bagalkot and Davangere South (Karnataka), and Dharmnagar (Tripura).
AAP’s social media post hailed Gitesh Naik’s selection, aiming to capitalize on its anti-corruption and welfare planks. For CM Pramod Sawant, this by-poll is a litmus test, with Ponda’s outcome potentially signaling BJP’s grip in Goa.
As the dust settles on nominations, attention shifts to campaign trails where local concerns— from farmer welfare to urban growth—will sway undecided voters. The race underscores Goa’s shifting alliances and the enduring legacy of Ravi Naik.