Goa’s Democratic Opportunity

Goa’s Democratic Opportunity 

One of the biggest privileges given to us by India’s founding founders was freedom of speech and Democracy. However are Indians and Goans in particular using it or wasting it ?

Today in Goa for instance, we are clearly aware of the Massive loot of our mining resources to the tune of thousands of crores of Rupees, huge theft of our taxes via corruption, horrific pollution of our air/waters, large scale destruction of our environment, ecology and thousands of trees for unwanted/unjustified projects; that benefit only the political class and their financial backers.  The list goes gone on and on !

Most Goans are just interested only in just Football, Bootlicking pathetic/ineffective/Corrupt Politicians, Singing tunes of their favorite political party’s, Social Events,  Dances, Nightclubs and applying for Portuguese passports ; I appreciate some do for economic reasons but I know many who actually do not need to do so! 

There are people in many parts of the world who dream of freedom, free speech and democracy. And here we are just taking it for Granted.  It’s a minuscule minority of people in Goa who are genuine activists and fighting a thankless battle against powerful & corrupt forces. There are also, to acknowledge few non resident Goans also speaking out and doing their bit even; even if it is just a little.  Where are the rest of the overwhelming majority of Resident and Non Resident Goans?  Are they so complacent that they could not even contribute in a small manner of action or even speech? Are they scared of offending people so as to ensure that they are always in good books of the rogue Anti Goa Forces and hopefully get their personal work or business done ? Or maybe it’s just cowardice! Many of these people will spend their energy fighting against their own family members for property, money and other benefits but will have no spine when it really matters. We can can even see this inaction in which Goans generally continue to vote for failed/corrupt politicians! 

What use is Democracy if we do not contribute, speak up and hold our politicians/ public servants Accountable ! Many could get a PHD in being the state of affairs of the state and its politics but what’s the use of all this if we do not put it to some use of even some minimum  speech or action.  

I think we Goans don’t not actually deserve all the freedom and powers that democracy has given us. It is better that we are Governed by Dictatorship! Needless to say this does not only apply to Goans but also Indians at large ( Resident and Non Resident ) 

Arwin Mesquita, Colva.  

Black Real Estate - Goa

It is a known fact that the builders lobby and specific real estate agents are working overtime to convert Goa from Green to Brown and this is having a serious affect on the environment, ecology not to mention severe land/air/water pollution and rising temperatures.  

Goans must realize that to feed the greed of few, Goa and Goans in general are being compromised. Not to mention, the huge black money component which is a major factor in pushing the real estate growth to such crazy heights and in turn destroying our beautiful state. We must recognize this fact and take the builders lobby to task and push for reduction in the indiscriminate buildup.  

I appreciate that real estate is required to some point but what is happening in Goa today is beyond tolerable levels. Mahatma Gandhi once said "The world has enough for everyone's need, but not enough for everyone's greed". Goans must wake up before it's too late or be ready to pay the price for allowing this indiscriminate destruction. 

Arwin Mesquita, Colva

It is a known fact that the builders lobby and specific real estate agents are working overtime to convert Goa from Green to Brown and this is having a serious affect on the environment, ecology not to mention severe land/air/water pollution and rising temperatures.  

Goans must realize that to feed the greed of few, Goa and Goans in general are being compromised. Not to mention, the huge black money component which is a major factor in pushing the real estate growth to such crazy heights and in turn destroying our beautiful state. We must recognize this fact and take the builders lobby to task and push for reduction in the indiscriminate buildup.  

I appreciate that real estate is required to some point but what is happening in Goa today is beyond tolerable levels. Mahatma Gandhi once said "The world has enough for everyone's need, but not enough for everyone's greed". Goans must wake up before it's too late or be ready to pay the price for allowing this indiscriminate destruction. 

Arwin Mesquita, 

Sensitive Goa Government 

It was interesting to hear key Ministers in the current Goa Government complaining about the criticism of their Governance on social media. They call the critics Social Media “Tigers” who just are trying to promote pessimism in the state. 

Ironically, these same MLA’s were criticizing the Ex-Govts when they were not part of it and even their followers were criticizing  ex-Governments, in an organized/planned manner. 

So I ask under their own definition, where they then Social Media “tigers and pessimists” when they were not part of the Government? Are they saying that since they are now in power they are doing an absolutely amazing job to the Good Of Goa/Goans and people should not criticize them ?

One thing I can see is that though they have successful checkmated all opposition to their governance either by 1) Lucrative Incentives/Political favours, 2) Creating Political Divisions, 3) Various cases filed on opposition MLA’s (Which I don’t think they will push for prosecution but will only use as defense to blackmail any potential opposition); what they are now surprised by is criticism by Goans coming from areas they did not expect and that to from a huge Global Level.  

Happy “Liberation” Day Goa!

1) They looted Goa on its iron ore/minerals to the tune of thousands of crores of Rupees, so as to beef up the coffers of the central government and also the Wealth/Black Money Of Politicians In Delhi, Goa and many others.

2) Corrupt ruling politicians at the Centre  After looting Goa in crores give pittance back in

Relatively much smaller amounts and act as if they are doing us a favor.  If our resources were not looted we would not need any of their pittance. 

3) By looting Goa of it’s resources they have converted on what should have been one of the Richest states in the world to the most indebted in India. 

4) Small Goa is being bought out using these huge amounts of black money from other parts of India  and with it our waters polluted, hills cut, beaches degraded, sand dunes destroyed etc. this black money has made properties / real estate out of reach for ordinary Goans !

5) Now after looting our resources, selling out our land (many times by allowing illegalities) 

- NOW Our Government  is giving away our waters to much bigger state so that it can help election prospects in that state .  ( If it really was on  humanitarian basis  why did the Government  not write to the elected Karnataka Govt?)

And they want us to Celebrate Liberation Day. From what - On all the points mentioned above ?

Political Garbage Mentality 

Given the pathetic situation of Garbage being all over the place, I keep on hearing some people including politicians saying the ownership is on People and not of the Politicians. 

Whilst I agree Mentality of people is also important but let this not be an excuse, to justify the incompetence of the Goa Government. 

 I have been to many places with significant Indian populations and sorry to say many do carry this same poor mentality on cleanliness / Garbage management. Of course there are other nationalities also who are the same. 

 But these places are still generally clean  because the Government there not only has set up effective bins/garbage collection points and organized a professional work force to keep the place clean but also has introduced stiff penalties for the offenders. Is this not common sense for the Goa Government to do in a small state with a relatively small population ?

The Goa Government talks big and makes s lot of promises but the actual results are pathetic ! Have we all forgotten that the government promised Garbage Free Goa by 2015?

Parrikar’s Costly NGT

It’s quite surprising that Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar says it’s too costly to set up the NGT Bench in Goa.  Does he realize that Goa’s USP - unique selling point is its natural beauty, clean environment? ( both now getting fast eroded by his Govts destructive policies)   Will not be too costly for Goa and Goans we lose on our USP?  

Also I find it strange when the Govt is fine in spending crores onfunding illegal dwellings at Tax Payers expense but Does not have funds for a genuine cause!

Yes however I do agree it will be costly for Corrupt Govt Ministers, Bureaucrats and destructive lobbies who will lose a lot, should there be strong deterrent against illegally destroying Goa!

Dubai Goa Marketing

There were advertisements recently promoting Goa Tourism in Dubai. What the Goa BJP Government forgot to also include in their promotion are the actual major attractions i.e. Garbage all over the place, filthy beaches, drug abuse sewage into the Sea to enhance the Tourists swimming experience, filthy towns etc.

Vasco Pollution 

CM Manohar Parrikar please can you advise:

1) Why was there severe pollution in Vasco in the First Place? Was it the failure of your government? 

2) Have the offending parties been penalized or is it that they have just been asked to stop on the plans temporarily and later will be rewarded,  by taking their Coal plans to the next level ?

3) What steps have been taken by your government to ensure that this heavy pollution in Vasco/Goa does not happen again?

4) Has your Government taken responsibility for severely affecting the health of many people including children in account of your government’s negligence ? So instead of you slamming the National newspaper, should Goans not slam your government?

5) Have you checked on the land and water pollution in Goa, which has been the caused by your Government policy of coal transportation by rail, road and water ?

Goa Delhi Pollution

I feel for Delhites on their ‘gas chamber’ Pollution - but did they allow this to happen by not holding their politicians accountable  !

Goans do you think Goa can’t face severe Air Pollution? Think again, already there are people/children in Vasco having severe health problems.  

And now the Goa Government  has ambitious plans to pollute Air, Water & Land In what was Pollution Free Goa by increasing the Coal Hub capacity significantly and using our rivers and roads to transport tons of coal !

India already has 10 out of the worlds most polluted  places and now lopsided myopic policies want to increase this list!  

So what to we Goans do ? Ignore? Be silent and let the small number of activists fight for us and for our children or do we all rise and checkmate these destructive policies!

Maybe our Ministers should got to places which are using Eco ways of generating power instead of giving us only one option ie. If you want the power please also accept the coal pollution! 

Miramar Sex Scandal 

Quote Manohar Parrikar then in 2001:

"Worse than Jalgaon"  "No matter who the culprit is, they will not be spared".  So what's the outcome Shri Manohar ? Nothing or U-Turn as usual !   For those supporting Manohar for whatever reason,  please can at least the "Educated Ones" advise why case was was not taken up further for justice  and the Guilty Not Punished?

It's really amazing how politicians who make consistent  u-turns,  big promises and achieve practically nothing are still kept alive in Goan politics. Says a lot about the Goan Mentality and how "educated" Majority Goans really are ?

Nevertheless looks like this is yet major case of justice not served and culprits getting away scot free ! 

Arwin Mesquita, Goa.  

http://m.rediff.com/news/2001/may/26goa1.htm

Legacy of Manohar:

2012 was when Goa rejoiced that finally a highly qualified Manohar Parrikar became Goa CM backed by all his passionate exposures on: 

1) Congress Party Corruption, 2) Closing of Casinos, 3) 0% Tolerance to Corruption, 4) Regional Plan, 5) Special Status to preserve Goa's Identity, 6) Garbage Free Goa by 2016, 7) Recover thousands of crores of mining loot and punishment of the people involved 8.)50,000 plus jobs etc were some of main reasons, Goans voted for Manohar Parrikar to have a Majority Government in the Assembly. 

So is it not clear to us what's the outcome after allow these 5 years? How much percentage has been achieved? I would have been fine if there was some achievement but sadly it is practically 0%!

1)Ex Ministers are free and some even are back in the Assembly 

2) Casinos have only increased with one now destroying Miramar beach 

3) 0% Tolerance has been applied in the ex cm bro in law I guess 

-has corruption reduce or has got worse in Goa ? 

-Congress men that Manohar has called highly corrupt are now in the BJP. Was this their reward instead of being punished?

- Illegal land deals, conversions are still rampant and thanks to the activists/NGT some have been stalled

4) Regional Plan and 

5) Special Status fully U-Turned! 

6) Garbage is really free flowing in Goa 

7) How much of the mining loot has been recovered(it was proven that actually the BJP also got lot of money from Black Money tainted firms like Timblo) and 

8.) how many Jobs were actually created ! 

Panaji where he was in charge for a quarter of century has degraded big time during the same time.  

Also one of the best indicators and measure of his performance was when his majority government became a minority set of MLA's in the last 2017 Elections.  

So, I am amazed by people still having their blind folds on, for example when photos are shown of the prime towns of Panaji/Mapusa (which has No1 and 2 of the BJP Incharge ) as filthy, people will still says it's not his/BJP's fault. Will these same people say the same if it was another party in power ? What really are our standards for our politicians to deliver?

There are people who criticize me saying people like me are against BJP on lame points like Beef, Religion etc. when some of these very people knew that I was also vocal against the Congress and "Catholic in name" Ministers. So was it beef and religion then also !  I invite these BJP supporters to check with Manohar if I did not meet him in the Assembly and BJP Panaji office when he was opposition leader with a proposal to improve things in Goa. Why would I do it if I was always Anti-BJP ? 

These BJP supporters just come up with anything to protect their politicians on an ideological bias rather than performance and worse it's even the educated ones!

I appreciate Congress was corrupt and wrongly used the religious angle but that does not mean the BJP is less either (Nationally letting Vijay Mallya and Lalit Modi leave the country?). The BJP is misusing religion for power and people surely should be smart enough to recognize this! 

Finally the people of Panaji will decide that MLA but I think the practical thing we can do in the very least, is to send a strong message that Failed MLA's must be rejected and new comers must be given a chance else we are setting a bad precedent for Democracy where big failures are tolerated ! 

Hope Better sense prevails in Panaji on the Election Day. 

MLA's on MOPA

 

 

It is indeed surprising that many MLA's are silent on the BJP Governments plans to aggressively push through with the second airport at MOPA.  What is more surprising is that People are not pressurising their MLA's on this issue. Many of these MLA's have forsaken their people and Good of Goa for personal/political gains, including for example the latest ministerial berths for 2 Salcette MLA's!!   I think there are bigger powers at play here on huge profit sharing basis with corrupt Goan Politicians. The latest example is Tiracol where practically the entire village has been sold off and is a clear example of a Real Estate Scam.  Now the MOPA Airport will be another one and have significant negative impact on the whole of Goa, should Goans allow this to happen!!

Goan Environment Awareness

It is extremely important that we Goans keep ourselves updated on the subject of Environmental Awareness, as else we will pay a heavy price of our complacency in the near future. While we continue to make merry in a susegad attitude, politicians and their backers with deep pockets are selling us out, polluting our water, land and air. Already they are contributing to a potential water crisis in the near future by now planning the diversion of Tillari Waters (Originally meant for irrigation/drinking) to MOPA and the Mammoth Golf Course at Tiracol. How many of us know that Goa is going to lose a lot of its land via Global Warming and with the myophic policies coupled with the corrupt greed of our governing authorities, the actual negative fallout will be much more serious!!   By being aware of the severe environmental implications, local people can act as watchdogs on the actions of their respective politicians including Muncipalities and Village Panchayats; to ensure the right development is taking place for the interest of the locals only and to be as environmentally friendly as possible.

Pro Corporate Goa Government

This Anti-Coal movement has clearly shown us where the Goa Governments priorities are, it is clear that their primary Goal is to satisfy the corporates who bank roll their election campaign and party. 

The Goa Government is using Goa as a coal transit point not for the electricity excuse  that they foolishly keep giving, but to help select corporates maximize profits by getting coal to their Industries. 

The Government has no care for the destruction to the environment nor livelihoods.  They are giving reasons to support their coal plans saying that they need to create jobs etc and Goans are opposing, can some one explain to me for instance how having jobs can be created by Goa as coal hub corridor! Can they really not come up with Environment friendly ways to encourage jobs and boost the economy, how many initiatives have we seen so far? 

 Goans must understand quickly that India/Goa is a pseudo democracy. It is a Government by the corporates and of the corporates and for the corporates. The people are just namesake pawns in this game. The sooner we understand this the sooner we can come up with solutions to address destructive governments. 

Arwin Mesquita, Colva.  

GOA DAY

I must appreciate this Day as one then Brings Goans together in a Festive Passionate Spirit. 

But I wish Goans also display this Passion & Interest by removing our blind folds and realizing that our State, Identity, Environment etc are clearly under a Huge Threat, and do something against it. 

After all what will be the Point of Goa Day without Goa! 

Pollute Goa with Coal.  

10 Of 20 Worlds Polluted Cities are in India.  

Now the Govt guess wants to make it 20 out of 20 and also add states like Goa to compete with being the most polluted via its Terror Coal hub/corridor plan !. 

Thought for Goa activists. 

Whilst I run my business, enjoy my life with my family/friends, Travel the world etc. I often think about the genuine  environmental activists back home in Goa who are sacrificing a lot to preserve my beautiful state against all the destructive and corrupt forces.  

Leave alone supporting them, what's worse is that even many of the Goans both in Goa and Overseas do not even appreciate and acknowledge what they do !

Anyway for me, I have to do much much more than I am doing now.

Floods Accountability 

Mumbai saw really horrible flooding so begs the question where does the accountability lie?  Well Based on Goa where the elections this year saw known extremely corrupt MLA's being elected by the so called educated and recently at the bypolls, a person who is well known for U-Turns big time, on all the promises for Goa and did practically nothing despite have a Assembly majority and big power at the Centre, again being re-elected in the same place, which has only worsened in his approx 25 years of being MLA there; I can only say that  people get the politicians they deserve and God Forbid any man made calmities happen with serious damage and loss of life, the people who kept such politicians in power will be the one to be held accountable! 

They are the ones giving these politicians the green light to destroy our mangroves, rivers, Low lying areas, fields and the environment on the whole.

Goa Bypoll Results 

Congratulations to all those who stood for what is right. 

I appreciate those who standing for what is right against corruption, destruction of Goa, Garbage, Pollution of our waters, land & Air, Casinos, Mining, destroying/selling our of our land and identity etc. Keep doing it and your conscience will be clear that you did your part. 

I now am very clear why Goa is in a mess. It's not only because of Fanatic Forces or the known Corrupt Congress/BJP/Other MLAs or the looting mining companies or the casino kings or the land sharks or the drug lords or the mafias or the known big criminals  or even the black money kingpins from outside Goa!.  

It's because of the sad mentality of majority of our people; irrespective of religion. 

My views will not change and I will continue do what I have to do. ! My Allegiance is to my land and not any party or person or ideology- I have proven this in my stance against various governments irrespective of party; when they were in Governance. 

May God help/save Goa. 

Dev Borem Korum.

Thank Goa Activists 

The Mumbai pub blaze and deaths of innocent people show us that incompetent/corrupt  Authorities act only when there is a tragedy. Will those who authorized such illegalities in Mumbai be identified and punished?

Will Goans now be thankful for the select genuine activists who oppose illegalities in Goa against all odds I.e. Government harassment and general in-difference/complacency of Goan Society;  and also can those promoting illegalities and those doing nothing to stop such illegalities please avoid  promoting  the common excuse  “ Activists oppose Everything” 

AAP - Only Election Interest

Let me state that this is only an example of AAP Benaulim. Other parties are also the same but the expectation was AAP would be different and Many including me were looking for this difference. 

In the weeks leading to the Election all the candidates including their supporters ( local and overseas) were campaigning, saying how they were concerned for Goa and how things would change should their candidate be elected. At that point I had mentioned most of these candidates and supporters are only active at election time. 

The Result was Benaulimkars in “Their Wisdom” re-elected a person well known for his tainted past and today his past credentials are effectively used by the current government to keep him quite and low profile; as good as an MLA with no significant use to Benaulim. 

AAP and it’s Benaulim candidate has gone into hibernation iand so are it’s supporters, including supporters from Overseas and other parts of Goa. So many issues currently in Benaulim and no voice at all from AAP or its candidate at all!

There is only candidate who despite not given the opportunity to represent Benaulim but is still today fighting against so many illegal activities in Benaulim. And I know to this day the huge sacrifices and efforts by this candidate ie. Judith Almeida- she still continues her fight regardless for the village. 

So coming back to my main question to AAP Benaulim; Is your interest in Benaulim only at election time or is it true service regardless of (A) election or not (B) You win or not  !

Of course needless to say the same question is to other politicians from other parties in other constituencies and also AAP candidates in other parts of Goa; most of whom have now gone into

Hibernation!

Subject: GSPCB Coal Permissions. 

I appreciate GSPCB revoking consent SWPL to

Operate on Coal Handling at MPT, however I have the following questions:

1) It is now known that MPT was allowing the excessive coal handling for so many years, why was the Government silent for so long ? Is this not a big failure on part of the Goa Government?

2) If the Authorities are doing their job will the people/Activists need to protest or go to the courts ?  Why does this appear to the only option by Goans to stop such unwanted destruction and pollution?

3) For so many months People/Activists are complaining about Coal Pollution and the Government, various ministers and MLA’s were inturn  criticizing the activists, denying there was coal polluting  & then there were politicians just remaining silent! Are the activists now Due an apology by these politicians?

4) So Many people and children have suffered health issues on account of this excessive coal pollution allowed by the complacency of the authorities; are we just going to ignore this and not hold respective people accountable and ask them to remedy the situation as much as possible ?

5) Will this revoking be temporary or permanent?Now that we know that there are gross violations on coal pollution, why is the Goa Government still destroying hills, forests, wildlife, water bodies to create huge roads and infrastructure to make Goa as a coal hub ?

Subject: Delhi Goa Pollution 

Was in Delhi recently and whilst I was impressed with some Areas Of development, I was horrified with the very high levels of Toxic air pollution. It certainly has got worse as compared to my earlier visits over the last few years. 

What Interested me more is that how the people there take it in their stride and tolerate this huge health hazard. Worse, I saw children exposed to all of this and adult see this as Very normal and acceptable. Is this not something the citizens should be vociferous on forcing the Authorities including the Centre and State Government to act upon immediately? We see protests for sillier things and mostly based on politics, religious, caste etc 

With the Main political leadership in Delhi no wonder they don’t think it’s a big deal to pollute healthier areas like Goa a bit more, as Delhi appears to be their bench mark. 

Thankfully, we have some sincere activists in Goa but unfortunately I see them as a microscopic  minority with the majority Goans ( Including those overseas in US, Canada, Australia, Kuwait, Dubai, Qatar etc) having  the same lethargic don’t Care Attitude as the people of Delhi; if this does not change Goa is on its way to be another polluted place in India!

 Happy Liberation from Healthy Living!

Subject: Christmas Environment Message

The Best Message to me this Christmas at Mass

“You can’t be close to God, if You are not close to Mother Earth - and you allow it to destroyed”

This message is so relevant for all Goans regardless of the religion they follow.  

Goa is at crisis point as the land is being destroyed by many of us, certain lobbies, corrupt/incompetent politicians and planners and we must act in urgency !

Subject: Request Visiting Goans 

It’s really great to see so many Goans from other parts of India and Overseas visiting Goa this season. Whilst it’s a great time to spend time with loved ones, friends and have a Good Time, I also request them to take some little time out and see the state of affairs in Goa and how they can contribute it whatever way possible for the state. 

One of the biggest strengths our Goan Community has is that we are well spread out in India and Globally; and in it we have got so many best practices that we can possibly implement in our own place. We also spread awareness to improve conditions for the better in Goa. 

I have travelled to many places and can say Goa does stand out as a unique gem and if more of Goans can act, then we can preserve and develop this Gem constructively else we will lose it  ! 

There are too many vested interests out to destroy our state for their selfish motives. 

Subject: Goa’s Pathetic Tourism Policy. 

Do we really this Current type of Tourism which does more damage then the actually benefit to the state! 

This type of unwanted Tourism is make Goa Filthy and disgusting with every passing year! 

Is this type of Tourism not driving away quality tourists! 

Why is the Goa Government so keep just target mass over quality Tourism !  Does the Government really does not have the intelligence to plan a good Tourism Policy to attract the right type of Tourists! 

Are these the mass numbers the Government is using as a argument to promote more airports in Goa!

What’s the point of having a highly intelligent Chief Minister leading the Government when the output is same as an highly illiterate Chief Minister!!

Subject : 5% Green Increase  

Recently the Goa Government declared that the Green Cover in Goa has increased by 5 %.  But Goa’s Area is not increasing and all we can see are fields converted/filled, water bodies and hills destroyed, forests ravaged ; many times for un-necessary projects including mega housing, unplanned roads to Goa’s requirement, coal hub infrastructure etc. 

So from where is this 5% increase coming from ? Can the Government share some factual details as just mere statements are not enough. 

Real Indian Patriotism

It is good to see Indians exhibiting  very strong feelings about being patriotism for their country. There was recently lot of views given If people should stand or not, for the national anthem when played at the cinemas. 

However, I would like to question if we are really showing true patriotism i.e. to love/ safe Guard our land/people and if our scope is only limited to the National anthem. 

Today in India it’s so common to see politicians under the cover of the flag telling people to be Patriotic, like for the example Goa CM stating that not standing for the anthem at cinemas is a lot about ones upbringing! These same politicians  promote and allow, unnecessary destruction of land/water bodies/hill cuttings/ destruction of fields etc for greed of corporates, unnecessary mega housing projects, unplanned/illogical road  etc and with it so much of wild life and forests are affected; Is doing this because of  of ones/his upbringing?

Today, surely many Indians with patriotism say they will defend the country against enemies, but what about the enemies within? Today enemies inside (not outside enemies/powers) are destroying a lot of our land, Environment, forests etc. just take the Goa example. What Portuguese did not destroy in 450 years, India has done it in just 56 years! See photos of Goa at liberation and now and see how Goa has been converted from a beautiful, clean,  peaceful state with pristine beaches  now lots of destruction, polluted water/air, Garbage, filthy beaches and so on.  

Also not to mention the poor in India continues to get poor and the mega rich becoming even richer fueled by a Government sponsored by the mega rich and we can see policies of the Government on who they actually favor. For the examples to recover thousands of crores of Rupees given in loans or mismanaged by the mega rich/corporates the Government is now making up by putting all types of taxes and charges eg. In Banking sector on the full country. I.e. More Burden on an already heavily burdened population. They even allowed people with massive debts to leave the country!  And the Government conveniently gets away with all of this by singing the Nationalistic tune and many people get to easily fooled by all of this !

So coming back to patriotism; is it only against outside forces and we are fine to tolerate bigger enemies within !  It’s time we  exhibit true patriotism against any enemy( internal or  external ) who against our country and its people.  If we can’t address the latter even in a small way within our means then our patriotism is just plain Hypocrisy!

Subject : Goa Opinion Poll Day 

I welcome this move on the long standing demand to commemorate & officially recognize Goa’s Historic Opinion Poll Day.  

A Day when Goans decided that Goa would remain a separate state & identity vs. being Merged with another state

However, this is not enough and more needs to be done to preserve Goa’s Unique Land, Environment, Character & Identity Based on the below facts:

1) Our Land is Being bought out by rich money bags ( mostly in black money ) from people outside the state. Land is now too scarce and expensive for Goans to buy. How will Goa retain its identity if majority of land will not be in Goan hands ?

2) Goa’s Land, Water bodies, Hills, Environment etc are being ravaged by many times by unplanned &  destructive development; which just copy/pastes the general Indian model of development that does not take into account Goa’s unique facts as a small state. What is Goa’s Identity without all of the latter !

3) At liberation time, majority of people in Goa spoke Konkani and we all know language is the key identifier of any state/ culture / identity. Today due to uncontrolled Influx of people into Small Goa and no plan to promote/implement Konkani in the state, Konkani speakers are now falling into a minority. 

4) To reiterate, Small Goa with a small population can’t afford to take in uncontrolled too large number of people from outside the state and that too without any plans to integrate them to some point with the local character.  Goans make a big part of Goa’s identity and what will be if Goans are irrelevant in Goa? 

5) Due to a lack of a proper environment & local friendly employment business and job policies, many Goans are now acquiring foreign passports in alarming numbers way beyond the normal limits! Also other factors influencing the same are the excessive corruption, the growing levels of filth/garbage/uncleanliness and the most of the points mentioned above. 

Let’s not forget Goa is not asking for too much. We are just asking India to honor its promise to the World and Goans when it took over a Goa by force in 1961; ie. Goa’s Identity and Way Of life will be preserved by India.

Goa’s Goenkarponn Government 

Firstly to give Due Credit, I appreciate Minister Vijai Sardessai plans to celebrate Opinion Poll Day (16th Jan) & setting up Statues Of Dr. Jack Sequeira, who we all know was key in keeping Goa separate from the merger designs of our big neighbors. If not for him most of our “big” Ministers would be nothing today if Goa was merged into a bigger state. This is something’s none of the previous Governments have done and I Believe that remembering his legacy is a key base to implement Goenkarponn. Saying which in my view, the costs of setting the statues up should be minimum cost possible without compromising on quality, and possibly using it as part of a plan to have a beautiful/ clean & well maintained surrounding area which could possibly be a tourist attraction. 

Now after giving this credit, I must state that this does not meet the Governments commitment as surely the below points  which are  currently being pursued or allowed by the Government goes against Goenkarponn:

1. Unnecessary destruction of Goa’s Forests/Greenery/Wildlife as we are seeing for example by the Government creating unnecessary bid roads in Loutolim, to satisfy corporates with vested interests. Loutolim is an idyllic village which today one of the few last villages of true Goenkarponn . 
2. Coal pollution and then lying/misleading to Goans, even after being caught out - as we see regularly from the Government. 
3. Nationalization of our rivers 
4. Goa getting filthy & unlivable by the day
5. Konkani usage decreasing in Goa  and no planned strategy to make it the No 1. Language in Goa. What is Goenkarponn without Konkani ?
6. Unnecessary destruction of fields, water bodies, hills etc . This is Goa’s Key  On Goenkarponn and the Government is allowing and also facilitating its destruction by the real estate lobby. For example we are seeing many instances of unwanted and unplanned widening of Roads in small Goa. 
7. Goans still migrating in alarming numbers particularly on Portuguese passports.  What is the Governments action to reassure Goans that there plans for them for a good future in Goa.  
8. Alarming sale of Goan land to people from those from outside the state. Will Goenkarponn not be affected if Majority of Goan Land is not with Goans?
9. Why is it so difficult for Goa Government to even do things within its control e.g. banning sale of agricultural land to people from outside Goa? Will this not be on alignment with the Government declaration that Agriculture is the focus.           
10. Has the Government declared a proper time based plan for implementation of Goenkarponn or will it be another false commitment as was done with the earlier promise of Special Status to preserve Goa and its identity?

Surely the Goa Government will appreciate that above are some of logical/required points to implement Goenkarponn else just having celebrating Opinion Poll day and statues will not be enough. 

Subject: Governments Coal Deceit

Now it is very clear that MPT outrageously  allowed huge excess of Coal Handling over the last 6 years so:

1) Was the Government really not aware that these violations were going on for 6 years ?

2) Who paid whom for these excesses? Were they accounted or not?

3) If there are clear violations of what I see is a criminal intent to harm people’s health, why is no one being penalized and the license to operate revoked ? Instead why is the Government allowing these violators further rewards via significantly increasing their operations; whilst sacrificing Goa’s Environment, Forests and wildlife ?

4) Clearly the Government was aware of these violations for last 6 years so when the activists started highlighting these recently why was  the Government and specific MLA still in Denial ? 

5) The Government criticizes Activists that they always goes to courts, will they have to If, like in This case the Goa Government is doing its job?

6) Who is Goa Government mainly accountable to ? People or it’s high command in Delhi or  is corporates sponsors for whom greed is the primary culture ?

7) Now it is clear that the Goa Government is lying and misleading Goans ! Why are we tolerating this particularity on the fact that this political class was actually rejected at the 2017 elections!

Subject: Tourist Cooking Areas 

It was interesting to hear the Goa Governments solution, to the major issue of tourist visitors to the state cooking in public places particularly on roads. 

I wonder if there is any proper thinking/planning to what the Goa Government says or does in Goa. For instance on this particular point:

1) Has the Govt does any cost benefit analysis to see the returns of his new proposed plan?

2) Yes, there are such things in other countries but they have already planning in their revenue benefits coming from Visas, Flight Tickets, Confirmed Hotel rooms etc. What is the revenue the Goa Government planning to get from yet another freebee other, than these type of tourists just buying alcohol at very low prices and the littering all over the places and treating Goa like an open toilet.  

3) Will this new plan mean more of our green areas/fields will be acquired for concretization? 

4) Will the Govt provide free water which will also  be also wasted ?

5) As clearly this plan will not deliver profit revenue, will these places be taken good care of ? We already see how badly the Government takes care of Goa which is a good revenue earner with respect to its size; as compared to many other places in India    

6) Will this free charity tourism not clog our roads and give another excuse to destroy fields/forests and make bigger wider roads in small Goa ?

7) Is this type of unwanted tourism not affecting the quality tourism by decent tourists who would actually give good revenue to the state and keep our state clean.  

8) Can we not see that this is Damaging Goa’s reputation and even causing Goans to leave the state/migrate in the light of Goa getting filthy by the day?

9) Is all this filth not destroying our beaches and polluting our waters, air and sea food. Has this been taken into account ?  What is the Goa State Pollution Control Board doing? 

10) Can the Goa Government really not come up with a proper plan to discourage such time of unwanted tourism?

Goa has generally a high literacy rate. How is this useful if we allow the Government to make and even get away with such plans?

Subject : Goans oppose everything ?

Goans opposing everything is a general representation of a view that I increasingly hear in Goa.  The interesting part is that this distorted view is mostly promoted by politicians and those having vested interests against Goa and Goans. 

I do accept that there are some genuine cases being wrongly opposed by Goans but these cases are largely in-significant vs. the overwhelming large non-genuine cases which clearly are against Goa’s interests with reference to its Environment, Ecology, People and their way of life.  And cunning politicians will bring up the very few cases that opposition was wrong, so as to justify the overwhelming large amount of Anti-Goa projects. Also needless to mention, given the Goa Government Pathetic/Destructive Track record, people are justified to be skeptical of any of the Goa Government’s plans !

We know of other cities in India which from

Originally being beautiful/livable cities are now turned into filthy, polluted & un-livable by the governance which is clearly corrupt, destructive and short sighted in their development plans. Goa is also on the same path but thanks to the efforts of some selfless/sincere activists, the Rampage of Goa’s destruction was slightly slowed down. (not sure how long these Activists can hold on against some really corrupt & destructive lobbies unless Goans Support them). I am always grateful  to these sincere activists; some of whom I know have sacrificed a lot for Goa/Goans and many times it’s a thankless Job. 

Are these politicians/ vested interests saying that Goans should blindly allow the “Clean/Sincere/Non-Corrupt/Environment Friendly/Effective” Goa Government to not share proper clear communicated plans but do what it wants with Goa and in doing so convert Goa to the likes of the other polluted/un-livable places in India ?

Subject: Goa Roads Expansion

It appears as common sense that in general we need bigger roads. But also we can’t copy paste general assumptions and but need to take into account local considerations particularly in view of Goa’s small size and particular considerations:

1) Are the Current Roads and the way they are maintained/organize/regulated and laws/rules  implemented not a big cause for accidents or we just ignore all that and just say big roads are the answer? 

For instance why do Roads also have potholes - is this not basic that should be addressed first ?

2) Goa is small compared to the other much bigger states- has the Government taken into consideration to develop roads to align with Goa’s unique characteristics or are they as we suspect,  Just copy pasting models from larger states? If they have Planned to Goa’s Requirements, why are they not sharing the same with Goans and instead keeping the road widening plans as top secret !

3) We are aware of the huge greed for political party’s / persons to make the project as huge an in-necessary as possible to ensure that their share of loot is the maximium!

4) We are aware as also being done in other states roads are also done to maximizing the real estate value of properties taken at a very low Value. If not how is that most of Goan politicians are corepathies and that to in the shortest time period!

5) In this particular case the BJP opposed the road widening / expansion when in opposition vs. the Congress but now they are following the same policies in a much worse manner. 

6) Surely If the Government gave a comprehensive Regional Plan with planned roads/widening but first addressing how Goa’s Character, Environment, Pollution  etc will be addressed, will there be lot of opposition -  Surely this is not being done by the Government. The issue is that we are aware of the Governments pathetic legacy so far where the interests of the Goa/Goans are not at all considered ; but more so how it’s a priority for The greedy politicians to Maximise their wealth and fullfill their commitments to some Devious business lobbies who want huge return in their investments in backing these politicians/parties! 

-That’s why Manohar Parrikar has openly declared for instance that funds given to parties should not be transparent to the Public. 

7) Is there really no way how we can manage a good road network whilst at the same time keeping Goa’s unique character/selling point. Do we have confidence that the Goa Government is really thinking out of their corrupt box? 

8) Goa is well appreciated vs. other Indian cities for

It’s Peaceful environment, tranquility etc. why do want to copy paste haphazard models from

These other cities which we know are messed up by incompetent politicians ?

9) Will these new road developments not encourage more un-necessary settlements, Mega projects, water shortages, pollution and concretisation Of Green Goa to the benefit of the Real Estate Lobbies, Land sharks and politicians.  What are we turning Goa into !

Considering the above points and more, I fully support stopping the reckless Goa Government and am open to work with like minded people to oppose this road extension / widening plan on a reasonable basis and only support a constructive plan which takes Goa’s interests into account. 

Subject : Goa Liberation ? 

The Liberation of Goa was supposed to be the most happiest moment in history for Goa. But are we really liberated?

1) Goa was once the most beautiful and cleanest places in India, now it's going filthy by the day. Just look at the pictures in 1961 and going into today

2) Black Money rich Indians are buying out Goan land left right and centre with the assistance of the Corrupt Goa Governments, looks like Goa is being liberated from the Goans!

3)The Centre, Goa Government and mining companies are looting and taking award most of our rich Mineral Wealth. Had we had this for Goa, we would have been one of the richest states in the world

4) At Liberation time most of the Public Administration was by Goan, now that is gradually going to be a Goan minority! Again being liberated from the Goans

5) Environment is gradually being destroyed, water/air polluted. We are gradually importing the stinking corruption from rest of India!

6) Promises made by the then Indian Government in 1961 for Goans to decide the destiny of Goa to preserve the identity of Goa and now totally ignored !!

So what are we really celebrating !!

Arwin Mesquita, Colva.  

Subject: Goa liveable again 

No one can deny the fact that India has the horrible experience to convert beautiful, livable places into absolutely the opposite via its shortsighted and destructive development policies.  Just look at Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore etc which is choked by excessive  traffic, heavy pollution, water issues  etc. I  know so many people from other cities/towns in India, who are now complaining on the same. 

By what we see happening to Goa currently, the Goa Government polices are on course to do the same. Just look at Mapusa, Vasco, Ponda and see them as signs  of things to come, which are because of the pathetic and corrupt policies of various  Central/Goa Governments.  

So the question is what we are going to do About it? I am sure if at least we be aware about it, do our little bit to speak out and take some minimum action, the overall effort will be huge to prevent the destruction/pollution of Goa and instead move forward in a more sustainable, clean and environmentally friendly manner. 

Bottom line we can’t be complacent. We have to act now for Goa or repent in leisure. 

Getting a Portuguese Passport/Leaving Goa permanently can’t be the only responses !

Arwin Mesquita, Colva.