Debut in ZP, eye on assembly: Gauri wins from dad’s Shiroda stronghold

Margao: Gauri Shirodkar, daughter of water resources development (WRD) Minister Subhash Shirodkar, emerged victorious in her maiden electoral contest from her father’s Shiroda borough.Contesting on a BJP ticket, Gauri secured a commanding win with 5,985 votes, more than doubling the tally of her nearest rival.Deepinti Shirodkar of the Revolutionary Goans (RG) finished second with 2,868 votes, while Goa Forward Party’s Kajal Gaonkar got 2,455 votes. Independent candidate Rakhi Gaunkar secured just 488 votes.Subhash Shirodkar’s decision to introduce his daughter into active politics has been viewed by critics as a strategic move to consolidate the family’s political hold over the constituency.Gauri’s victory has only reignited the family raj narrative in political and social circles. Critics feel her victory could strengthen the minister’s resolve in securing a BJP ticket for her in the upcoming assembly elections. They also questioned the move, citing BJP’s opposition to dynasty politics when it was in the Opposition.“Gauri has been active in social work for the last five to six years especially in self help groups,” Shirodkar said.

“The party must have given her the ticket considering her skills, her contribution to women empowerment, etc. She has been working in the education sector as well.”Responding to pointed questions about allegations of dynasty politics following her victory, Gauri dismissed the criticism outright.“I don’t believe family connections play a decisive role in politics. Voters evaluate the individual candidate, the party they represent, and their actual contributions to society. I think that’s what ultimately determines the people’s choice when they vote,” she said.