Alemao questioned invoking the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for the Ponda by-election to halt proceedings. “The House is supreme. The session was on, the list of business was fixed, yet it was curtailed. The MCC has no authority over the legislature,” he said.
Calling the move unprecedented, he cited examples from other states. “Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tripura, and Nagaland are all facing by-elections, yet their sessions are ongoing. In Tripura, the budget was presented even when the MCC was in force. Are we a different country?” he asked.
He also flagged the manner in which the State budget was passed. “A Rs 30,190 crore-plus budget was cleared without proper discussion. This violates constitutional principles and marks a black day,” Alemao said.
Accusing the government of functioning in a dictatorial manner, RGP MLA Viresh Borkar alleged that Opposition MLAs were manhandled while placing their demands. “We tried to introduce our bills from day one. Over 20 bills, including private member bills, were not even allowed at the introduction stage, and even a vote-on-account suggestion was ignored,” he said.
He added that a letter has been sent to the Chief Election Commissioner seeking clarity. “In other states, despite the MCC, Assembly sessions are ongoing. We have asked if any directive was issued to curtail Goa’s session,” he said.
AAP MLA Venzy Viegas said the Opposition has invoked constitutional provisions before the Governor. “It is our duty as legislators to explore constitutional remedies. We have placed Article 175 before him. The next step could be escalation to the President,” he said.
Opposition leaders said the curtailment blocked discussion on key issues and accused the government of “bulldozing” the Assembly using its majority.
Goa Forward Party chief Vijai Sardesai was absent from the meeting, with leaders citing prior commitments.
The Opposition said it will continue to pursue the matter both constitutionally and politically, while taking the issue to the people.
