As the electorate gave a fractured mandate this time, too, the fate of the Goa government will be dependent on smaller parties and independents.

An independent candidate, Vishwajeet Rane, son of Chief Minister Pratapsingh Rane, has already pledged his support to the Congress, leaving it just one seat short of the required magical figure of 21.

Congress' 16 winning candidates and alliance partner NCP's three victorious candidates form the largest political combination and are likely to submit a letter to Governor S C Jamir asking for a chance to form the next government.

"We have 20 legislators on our side while talks are on with another independent legislator Anil Salgaoncar (Sanvordem) who has shown inclination to support us in forming government," a senior Goa Pradesh Congress Committee office-bearer told PTI.

If an independent candidate does not heed to Congress' request, the smaller regional parties like Save Goa Front, Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party, United Goans Democratic Party will play crucial role in forming the government.

None of the regional parties have conceded their support to any of the national parties. BJP with 14 legislators, too, have kept their cards at the chest.

"We are meeting in the evening to discuss the situation," BJP Goa spokesman Govind Parvatkar told PTI.

BJP, the second largest political party, had earlier categorically stated that they would not form the government, if they don't get absolute majority.

Save Goa Front, with two legislators campaign manager Siddhnath Buyao said, "We have to observe the situation. We are equidistance from BJP and Congress".