Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has defended his government’s policies on environmental issues, language, recruitment and electoral politics, while taking a swipe at the Opposition and ally MGP.

Speaking on Prudent's Head On, Sawant said the actual facts of Section 39A should have been placed before the Assembly and assured that decisions would be taken in Goa’s interest. He said a solution to the issue would be found.

On the demand to make Marathi a state language, Sawant said he had met members of the Marathi-speaking community protesting over the issue. He maintained that Konkani is Goa’s state language, while Marathi is recognised as a co-language, as provided when Goa attained statehood.

Sawant said Goa was formed on the basis of language and it would not be appropriate to alter the existing provision under the Official Language framework.

Taking on the Opposition, Sawant said he had no time to focus on whether opposition parties were united or divided. He said he had faith in his work and the people of Goa, adding that voters would judge his government based on its five-year performance before deciding whom to support.

“I don’t care whether they are united or divided,” Sawant said.

On BJP election tickets, Sawant clarified that he does not decide the candidates, saying the party follows a structured process through its organisation and election committee. He said winnability remains an important criterion and not every aspirant can be assured of a ticket.

He also pointed out that political parties regularly change candidates, with new faces making up around 30–40% of winning candidates in elections.

On the Staff Selection Commission, Sawant said it was a firm policy decision and there was no question of changing it. He said the system would ensure greater transparency in government recruitment and meet the public demand for a transparent selection process.

Sawant also cautioned his alliance partner MGP, saying the party is part of the NDA and should stand with the BJP-led alliance. Pointing out that MGP currently has only two MLAs, he said the party should not waste time conducting surveys in other constituencies and should understand its limitations.