The sudden declaration of Calangute as a reserved Zilla Panchayat constituency for women has caught several male aspirants off guard, forcing parties like BJP, Congress, AAP, and RGP to field unfamiliar women candidates.
BJP’s Franzilia Celine Rodrigues, 28, daughter of former Calangute sarpanch Francisco Rodrigues, is the BJP’s candidate. Calangute BJP MLA Michael Lobo has thrown his weight behind her campaign, citing the need for development in the tourist belt. Congress Carmelina Fernandes, Calangute mahila Congress chief, has been nominated by the party. She promises to focus on employment, women’s safety, and self-help groups. AAP’s Carol Fernandes is the AAP candidate, pledging to work for the people and address issues like garbage, water, and road repairs. RGP’s Ananya Candolkar, a Hindu candidate, filed her nomination papers on Friday and is preparing to hit the campaign trail ¹ ².
The election is scheduled for December 20, 2025, and the candidates are gearing up to win the hearts of the voters in Calangute.
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