Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Jun 3: The suspense surrounding Art and Culture Minister Govind Gaude’s possible removal from the Pramod Sawant-led Cabinet continued on Monday, as the BJP state unit decided to escalate the matter to the party high command.

A long-awaited meeting between BJP state president Damodar Naik and Minister Gaude finally took place, during which Gaude was reportedly cautioned for his anti-government remarks and reminded about party discipline.

“I met Gaude and heard his side of the story. He explained the context of his statements. The party has made certain things clear to him. This is a disciplined party and everyone, whether MLA, minister or worker, must adhere to it. There are proper forums to raise concerns,” Naik told The Goan.

Gaude, who joined BJP in January 2022 ahead of the Assembly polls, has been under scrutiny for accusing the government of corruption, particularly targeting the Tribal Welfare Department, which falls under the Chief Minister’s purview.

The party is expected to await a final decision from its central leadership.