Uncertainty over the proposed Scheduled Tribe (ST) reservation in Sanguem has prompted nearly 300 BJP workers to seek clarity from Social Welfare Minister and local MLA Subhash Phal Dessai following Chief Minister Pramod Sawant’s remarks on the reservation process.

Recounting the episode, Dessai said the workers gathered at his residence around 10 pm, concerned about the implications of the proposed reservation for his political future. He said he spent several hours speaking to them, urging them to remain patient and respect the judicial process.

Dessai maintained that ST political reservation was a long-pending demand and a constitutional right. If Sanguem is reserved, he said, the BJP leadership would decide the party’s candidate and his future political role. If the constituency remains unreserved, he would continue to represent Sanguem.

The minister said he would abide by the decision of the court and the BJP leadership, including the Chief Minister, the state party president and the central leadership. Any decision on an alternative constituency would be taken by the party after assessing the political situation.

Dessai also revealed that supporters from Cuncolim, Sanvordem and Curchorem had approached him about contesting from their constituencies. However, he said he did not wish to interfere in seats represented by other BJP MLAs.

Addressing the concerns of his supporters, Dessai stressed that no individual was above the party or the court and that the constitutional process must be respected. He added that his commitment to public service would continue regardless of his electoral future.