Goa's Special Status Sabotage

For the last so many months and years, many Goans have been calling for
Special Status to preserve Goa's Prized Identity. This was even promised by
Sonia Gandhi when she was in Goa campaigning for the Goa Lok Sabha seats.
But some how I feel that Central Government with their Local Party leaders
in Goa, have deceitfully re-worded this to say "Special Status as a
Financial Package"? What is the point of getting Financial Special
Status for Goans if Goans lose Goa? It was the Congress Party which gave the
orders to annex Goa without Goan Views, and at that time promised that Goa's
Identity would be preserved within India. Now this party is doing the very
opposite and conveniently ignoring the true calls for Special Status of
preserving Goa's Identity. Recently I read an article in the media that
Goans are fully Intergrated into India; I agree only from the point of
excessive corruption, destructive development, degradation of the
environment, pollution of land/water, looting of the state's resources by
Central Politicians and their local Corrupt Political Goan Agents, reduction
of the Goan Demographics to a non-goan populace etc In view of all the
latter, I wonder if susegad Goans (Goa and Overseas) have realised, that
they been cheated of their land, resources and its Identity for so many
years and if nothing is done now then all these will be gone forever!!

Arwin Mesquita, UAE

Goan Strongmen Doomed (And so are their supporters)

The Key to Saving Goa is to get rid of powerful Anti-Goan Politicians who currently project themselves as strongmen, in their respective areas of Small Goa. These highly corrupt MLA's are desperately trying to influence voters with Rice, Alcohol, Paying of amenities, Water Tanks, Cash incentives to vote banks, Pilgrimage Trains, publicity events in Kuwait, Dubai, Goa etc. The source of funds to influence voters is known to be from excessive corruption, sale of Goa, sale of Goan jobs, destruction/illegal mining, mega housing projects not favoring Goans and other forms for destructive development. Current weak laws allow these MLA's (most of who have criminal/corruption cases against them) to continue in power. However, with the winds of change now blowing across India on anti-corruption, I advise these Political Strongmen to be careful on what's coming to them next? Perhaps if they are smart they will quit politics now, before they face the full force of the people and the new Anti-Corruption laws which will be in place soon. Also when this time of these Strong Men is really up, I seriously doubt that their corrupt/ self centered/publicity seeking supporters in Kuwait, Dubai, Oman, Qatar, Goa etc will continue to be loyal to their corrupt & destructive masters, publicize themselves supporting the strongmen in print media/ photos or invite them for tiatrs, dances, football tournaments, religious functions etc. These so called supporters will go where ever the “sun shine’s” on them. And of course there will also be many corrupt supporters of the Current Goan Strongmen, who will face the full force/wrath or the anti-corruption wave!!

Charge Corrupt Political Supporters of Anti Goan Heavyweight Ministers

The winds of change are sweeping in India/Goa with the anti-corruption movement getting increasing momentum. Very soon, the known Corrupt Political Anti-Goan Heavyweight Ministers in Goa and their "priviliged" families, will soon be affected by this change in a very significant manner. But surely this cleansing will not only stop at the Political Heavyweights but will also go further and investigate/charge their corrupt political supporters, at various municipalities/panchayats who can be easily seen in various Press/Media Photos "Worshipping/Supporting their God Father". These Anti Goan Political supporters in the form of Sarpanchas, Panchas, Mayors etc are agents sponsored and put in at respective Municipalities/Panchayats, so as to ensure that their "Generous God Father" is able to loot and destroy Goa to the maximum. These corrupt Anti Goan Political supporters are in compliance with the Heavyweight Minister(s) in the decimation of Goa's Identity, SALE of Goa, catastropic destruction of the environment, reduction/contamination of water, pollution of land/water etc.

Arwin Mesquita, UAE

Rich Goa Looted

Many Goans are working hard making a decent living or are engaged in selling off Goa to outsiders, so as to maintain to maintain a standard of living for themselves and their families. Many others migrate in false belief that Goa does not have much richness or opportunities for themselves. The fact is Goa is actually very rich and Goans do not have to resort to all of the latter. The sad truth is that most of Goa's Natural Wealth e.g. Iron Ore is being excessively looted and its natural beauty is being destroyed for huge selfish gains by ageing corrupt politicians and their families. The Richness of Goa is only benefitting the very few, with most of them being long time politicians and their privileged political associates/backers. These Anti Goan Politicians who are known to have be associated with smuggling, high level corruption, drug peddling, prostitution, physical attacks, criminal records, illegal land conversions and sales to outsiders etc ensure that (1) First their families have been taken care of with the best money has to offer including flashy expensive cars, (2) Secondly take care of their few privileged supporters and then (3) Thirdly distribute "Crumbs" to ordinary Goans i.e. sponsorships, cash rewards, alcohol, paying amenities etc to buy off gullible voters. Why are Goans satisfied with these "Crumbs" when they can have a very good life in Goa without these “Crumbs” should Goa’s Richness be shared fairly amongst all Goans.
Goans who actually glorify these Looting Anti Goan Politicians in Goa and Overseas are either (A) fully bought off with illegitimate funds by their Political God Fathers or (B) perhaps are naive, ignorant and really stupid!!
What we need in Goa is a true revolution to get rid of all of the rogues; in order to safeguard our beautiful state for the benefit of all Goans.

Arwin Mesquita, UAE.

Grievance Goa Customs

To the Navhind Times, Goa


Dear Sir/Madam,

Please can you publish my letter in your esteemed newspaper


Sincerely,
Michael Fernandes.
[ADDRESS]

Subject: Grievance Goa Customs

REF: http://www.navhindtimes.in/opinion/letters-editor-323
This is with reference to letter "Inquiry into Public Grievance" dated 10th June 2011 by LILLIAN FERNANDES, Asst Commissioner of Customs, Vigilance Section, Panaji; which was in reponse to an earlier letter by Mr. Arwin Mesquita ‘Corrupt Goa Customs’ (NT, May 23). Please be informed that Arwin wrote this letter after I informed him of My Incident which happened on [DATE: ###], when I arrived from Dubai on Air India Flight Number [AI ##]. Arwin has also experienced the same in the past 2 years but does not have details, as it has been some time he has flown direct to Goa. May I also suggest that you publicly inform Overseas Goans respective email/phone details so as to contact your vigiliance office; should any similar unpleasant incidents occur at Goa Customs .

Michael Fernandes, Dubai.

Konkani Gone Global with Pride (International Amersfoort Jazz Festival - The Netherlands)

This is with reference to the recently held Konkani Rocks event by Heritage Jazz, at The International Amersfoort Jazz Festival in The Netherlands. I appreciate the all the hard work and efforts of Mr. Armando Gonsalves and his team, for taking Konkani to the Global Stage which is certainly a very big International boost for our mother tongue. No one can dispute the fact that Konkani is the core of our Goan Identity and it is high time for Goans, to give Konkani the respect that it truly deserves; not only in Goa but also at the Global Level. Just as other World Communities like the English, Spanish, Germans, French, Italians or the Indian Communities like the Gujaratis, Maharashtrians, Keralites, Punjabis, Tamils etc are proud of their mother tongues, so should Goans be proud of Konkani. I believe that with genuine Goa lovers instilling the pride and love for Konkani within Goans, particularly the younger generation, there will power surge for Goans (Local & Overseas) to rise over political, communal and other destructives challenges to preserve their Prized Land, Culture & Identity, which makes up that “Goan Magical Charm” admired by people the world over. Also it today’s increasingly Globalised World it’s is extremely important to “Be Global but Act Local” which means that we also have to make use of Globally accepted languages like English without at the same time Forsaking our Mother Tongue Konkani. We Goans certainly have treasure within us and it is high time that we shout our loud, proudly cherish the same and share it with the World Community!!
Arwin Mesquita, UAE

The Amazon and the Green Goa Context

Are Goans aware that the Amazon Rainforests provide 20% of the earth’s oxygen and 60% of its freshwater? Even worse, Are Goans aware that with current rate of de-forestation by a highly capitalistic human race, these rainforests will be gone within the next 40 years? Even if Goans are not aware of the latter, surely we should be aware of the severe consequences should the latter happen!! But then, if we are really aware of the detrimental consequences, why are we allowing the destruction of forests, greenery, hills etc. in our own beautiful state of Goa to satisfy the enormous greed the Rich Few i.e. Builders, Land Sharks, Real Estate agents and Corrupt Politicians. Why are we encouraging destructive industries, Government Projects and Multi Dwelling Mega Projects particularly in cases where we know that they are not in the interests of Goans at Large!! The sad truth is that the Anti-Goan Politicians have compromised Gullible Goans with Cash (mostly acquired via corrupt means), Favors (mostly illegal), paying of amenities, rice, sugar, water tanks, electronics, sponsorships and also threats/intimidation; so as to allow them a free hand, in continuing with the realization of their illegitimate incomes.

Also, so many Goans are involved in the Real Estate business which is way beyond, what Goa's environment can tolerate. Are these Real Estate people interested in selfish short term gains for themselves, which will only end up in Huge Long Term losses to Goa and Goans at large??

Paid Political Publicity - Specific Goan Politicians

Goa’s Papers are many times splashed with individuals/groups, singing praises of their Political Godfathers, who obviously has blessed them with various favors in political, cash or kind. It gives the impression sometimes that Goans are in love with these Corrupt Political Leaders, who have well known criminal backgrounds and even to-date involved directly or indirectly to violence, threats, extortion and intimidation; so as to pursue with their sources of illegitimate income in the destruction of Goa and its Identity via Mega Projects not favoring Locals, Excessive Corruption, Illegal mining, Land/Water Contamination, Hill Cutting, Environment degradation etc. Surely these politicians have stashed away huge amounts of illegitimate income, so as to use some part of the same for their Political Publicity. I was told that these Specific Politicians regularly frequent countries like UAE, Kuwait etc and pay their local “Loyal” agents to have events for their self-publicity and self-glorification. I have no doubt that the same type of Principle is followed in Goa but whether Goans are fooled or not by such “paid political publicity” is another matter!!

Arwin Mesquita, UAE

MOI and 'Man Of Masses'

The credit of getting the Government to succumb to giving grants for English must be given to the Parents and not to the Opportunistic/Corrupt Politicians who are now being called “Man of the Masses” and are using this achievement, to get Maximum Political Mileage. Some of these “Man of the Masses” were instrumental in creating the Language MESS in the first place and then in hypocrisy, sent their children to English Medium Schools at that time. If these “Man of the Masses” truly are what they publicize themselves to be, then can they also please address the other extremely critical issues Goa is facing today i.e. (1) Illegal Mining which is devastating Goa and has to be addressed urgently (2) Mega Projects which are changing local demographics and destroying the environment (3) Stop the Anti Goan MOPA airport,(4) Remove the dubious additions to the Regional Plan e.g. the Eco Sensitive Zones which are nothing but a trick, to sell more of Goan Land (3) Get their Congress Government to adhere to their promises of obtaining Special Status for Goa. One Lesson to be learnt from the MOI achievement however is Goans can get what they truly want from GOA, if they fight for the critical issues in large numbers!!

Why Pay Taxes?

Why Pay Taxes?
The answer that I got in my childhood years was right in principle i.e. Taxes are needed for the state and its citizens: for sustenance, development and constructive progress. However I would like to ask this Question again today i.e. Why Pay Taxes in Goa or rather Why pay so high Taxes in Goa?
Should we pay Taxes from our hard earned income for the following?
(A) Allow MLA’s to steal Taxpayer’s money via excessive corruption and stash it away in overseas lands and other secretive avenues. And then use a small part of these funds to give rice, sugar, fertilizers, water tanks, electronics, bicycles, medical benefits, paying amenities, sponsor football tournaments/tiatrs etc to entice Voters? Is this their money to use in the First Place?
(B) Allow MLA’s to encourage, grow and sustain illegal migrant vote banks in slums so that they can continue running their corrupt government, by manipulating democracy?
(C) Allow MLA’s to use Public Facilities e.g. Government Vehicles etc for the benefit of their families?
(D) Allow MLA’s to use the Police for protection of their illegal ways of acquiring income and as State Terror force on protestors, rather than ensuring Police safeguard and protect citizen’s rights.
(E) Allow MLA’s to destroy Goa, its identity and contaminate its environment, land & water resources rather than preserving the same.
The List for the above can be endless. Goans as other people always look for the best deals for food, services & products and have a right to ensure that they get the best deal for their money which is fair; but then why are we not bothered to at least, get a fair deal for the High Taxes that we pay to the State? Are we holding Politicians accountable for the Various scams, Carelessness and Shortcomings that are coming to our attention so regularly e.g. GIDC, MOPA, SEZ, Illegal Mining, Illegal Land Conversions/Sales, Promotion of illegal mega projects, Hill Cutting, Drugs Menace, Prostitution, Electoral Rolls Manipulation, Deaths of innocent people by a Corrupt & inefficient Electricity Department, Lawlessness, Contamination of beaches like Colva, Destruction of Beaches like Candolim, Water contamination, Garbage/Sewage crises etc Why are we allowing ourselves to be Robbed in “Broad Daylight” by these thieves? What is worse is that many of us instead do the exact opposite and glorify these thieves at weddings, public events etc and also the same is done by many Non Resident Goans during overseas trips of specific MLA’s.
I used to think or despite the high taxes we pay, the Goa Government struggles to satisfy Goans because of the size of tasks involved and high population. But today I do not think the same; I actually believe that the Goa Government Gets more than enough funds to provide basic amenities, employment/business opportunities, law/order and welfare for Goans but the reason they are unable to do so, is because many senior politicians steal a lot of funds via excessive corruption. Today’s Goa’s jails have lot or thieves but what they steal is very petty in comparison to what many Politicians steal from the Goan Taxpayers; so in comparison the petty thieves in Goa’s Jails are “saints” and should be replaced by the respective Politicians!!
Surely there will be many “supporters” of the corrupt politicians in Goa and Abroad, who will not be happy with this article but then again I sure it is an open secret of why they “support” these corrupt Anti Goan Politicians in the first place!!
Arwin Mesquita, UAE.

Susegad Goan MLA

MLA's in Goa are wise in promoting their Kin into Politics, so as to continue with their family's legacy of destroying Goa for personal gains and realizing huge sums of illegitimate income. The reason they are wise is because it is easy to be and continue, as an MLA in Goa. All you need is a lot of illegal wealth via excessive corruption, destruction of Goa and then use some small amount of this wealth to give various goodies to the corrupt electorate, legalize their illegalities, pay for amenities, medical expenses, sponsorships etc. And as long as you do the latter, you do not need to worry if there are serious problems in Goa, say for example (1) People dying of carelessness by the Electricity Department (2) Prime Beaches like Colva turned into sewage dumps or beaches lost due to the River Princess in Candolim; which in turn effects the livelihood of locals (3) Rapid Destruction/Contamination of environment, land & water (4) Mushrooming Slums (5) Rising Prices etc. Goans are generally are not bothered and very forgiving; they are too happy to allow the Corrupt Anti Goan MLA's to rob and destroy the state to a large extent, so long as they get their relatively smaller valued incentives/amenities from these MLA's. Many Overseas Goans also have this same "small" mentality and patronize these Anti Goan MLA's on visits abroad; they forget that most Goans are forced to leave Goa because of faulty actions & policies, of the very MLA's that they Glorify and Associate with!!

Arwin Mesquita,UAE.

Global Goan Convention - London - July 2011 (Opportunity or Waste?)

Today Goa is attacked on various fronts with respect to its Land, Environment, Culture & Identity. The critical reasons are Excessive/Illegal Mining, Rampant/Illegal Hill Cutting, Encouraged Migrant vote banks and un-controlled migration into Goa, Very high Level of corruption, Faulty Employment policies forcing Goans to migrate, Mega Projects which do not favor Goans, Garbage/Sewage crisis, Illegal land conversions favoring the real estate lobby, Drug Menace etc. All of the these are facilitated by Powerful Mining Companies, Real Estate Lobby, Land Sharks, Powerful National Politicians/Companies who use their Goan Politicians as their agents; and last but not least the Excessively Corrupt Goan Politicians themselves.

I had initially hoped that these Global Conventions would bring Goans together, to address the critical issues and facilitate some progress. I have attended Conventions in Goa (Jan 2007) and Oman (2009) and am very disappointed that there has been no significant action/progress for Goa. My criticism to be clear is not on the organizers, like for example the Muscat Goans who organized a good event but my criticism is on the overall purpose of having these conventions. Whilst yes in the last two conventions i.e. Oman and Kuwait, there were speakers for Goa and Its Identity however the sad part is that our corrupt government has ignored these pleas, as it would stop the sources of illegitimate income.

How many of us really see that If we Goans do not act for Goa, then the Goa that we know of today will soon be Gone! Will these "Goan" Conventions be relevant in the future if we lose our "Goan" Identity in Goa, or do we then just adapt and rename these Conventions to say for example Global "Jolly Indian" Convention?

My Direct Question to the Organizers and the Delegates for the London Convention: Are you all just planning to have just another "socializing event" convention with just fun, frolic, and entertainment? OR in addition to the latter, can we also use this Convention as an opportunity on Global Stage to, if I may suggest:
(1) Show our disgust with the Anti-Goan Policies of the Goa Government (can there be some sort of civilized protest e.g. Black Arm Band Protest)
(2) Voice out strongly on the urgent need for Goa to preserve its Land, Environment & identity.
(3) Invite Prominent Activists from Goa and organize meetings with UK Based Goans to support our common cause.
(4) Chalk out an action plan on how UK Goans can contribute or work together with Goans in Goa, to address Goa's Critical Issues
(5) Ensure a system of follow-up is setup from one convention to the other (Which Currently I have not seen being done; please correct me if I am wrong)
(6) Publicize all of the above.

If this Convention and future conventions are at all to be successful in my mind, then the most critical issues of Goa that I have stated above must be addressed, with a timely action plan. If these issues are not addressed not then in my opinion, these Conventions are a just waste of time, valuable resources and are actually not held for Goa's Genuine Interests but are actually held for other reasons!!

Arwin Mesquita, UAE.

Cavrem adivsi bachao samiti .press note

preservegoa preservegoa@gmail.com
arwinmesquita ,

date14 May 2011 19:16
subjectcavrem adivsi bachao samiti .press note
mailed-bygmail.com
Signed bygmail.com

hide details 19:16 (3 hours ago)


dearsirs,
pls find pres note to be published. pls do needful

PRESS RELEASE

Caurem Adivasi Bachao Samiti expresses deep shock and anguish over the recent
reports in local newspapers that the Chief Secretary has decided to allow 600 ore-laden
trucks on the Caurem-Quepem road every day. We are unable to believe that in spite
of dozens of representations being made by us to the Chief Secretary and other Govt
officials regarding various illegalites, he has completely ignored our reasoned arguments
and failed to do anything to stop the pluder of our National wealth. Instead, he has given
these irregular and arbitrary directions purely in the aid of illegal mining, which we
hereby demand to be revoked immediately.

Caurem Adivasi Bachao Samiti has repeatedly brought numerous illegalities plaguing
the transportation and extraction of ore from the Caurem Panchayat Area to the attention
of all the authorities concerned. During our interactions with the CM and the Leader of
the Opposition, both have clearly indicated that they are well aware that all the mines
operating in our area are illegal. In spite of all the evidence and arguments placed before
the authorities, no action has been taken against the errant miners. We have enough
reason to believe that there is complete failure of Law and Order in our State and that
our elected representatives and public officials are all conniving with the looters of our
National wealth, thereby posing grave threat to our National security and prosperity.

Caurem Adivasi Bachao Samiti hereby informs the Chief Secretary and the Government
of Goa that we are determined to fulfill our Constitutional Duty to protect oure natural
environment and to defend our Nation from the deadly enemy within, which is illegally
mining and robbing our wealth, and also destroying our lands, waters and communities
irreversibly. Unless our confidence in the ability and willingness of the Government
to uphold the Rule of Law is restored, we are mandated by our Constitution to protect
our Nation from those who are hell-bent on destroying it. All citizens of the Nation are
hereby urged to join us in our ongoing peaceful protest and to strengthen the struggle to
restore the Rule of Law in our Country.

Sd/-
Tulshidas Veliip
(Secretary)
Caurem Adivasi Bachao Samiti

Set Benaulim as an example to Goa

The Benaulim Constituency has played an important role in many of Goa's Critical Issues i.e. huge support for Saving Goa from Merger in the Opinion Poll, the Konkani agitation etc. and I now strongly believe that this highly literate constituency, has the potential to be the change that we need to see in Goa. Today the threat to Benaulim Constituency is not from outside but from within; we have extremely corrupt Anti-Goan Politicians who have over the years have made a mess of our beautiful constituency (and also other parts of Goa) and we have allowed them to do the same. These selfish politicians have amassed huge sums of illegitimate cash via excessive corruption, mega projects and SALE of Goa favouring outsiders, destructive development, Illegal Mining, selling jobs to outsiders etc. and then have used a small part of these illegitimate funds to enslave the people of Benaulim via Sponsorships, Cash Incentives, Paying of amenities, Distributing Rice, Fertilizers, Sugar etc. and by ‘legalizing’ various illegalities of many people. If we allow these corrupt politicians to continue in this manner, then surely we can all imagine of what will happen to us and our Constituency. My request to all Benaulikars is to take a stand on corruption and on these Anti-Goan Politicians; I appreciate that there is a fear psychosis in Benaulim with these criminal politicians, but can each one at least take a personal stand on the same and where possible try to state your views; even if it means doing so in a mild manner. The latter alone will not only Save Benaulim from the Anti-Goans but also be an example to the Rest of Goa!!
Arwin Mesquita, UAE

Dum Maro Hypocrisy

I resent Bollywood degrading Goans particularly Women. The recent release of the Movie Dum Maro Dum is really serious negative publicity. I hoped in vain that the screening be stopped but at the same time I question the root cause? Who gave approvals to shoot the movie? Transparency International recently reported Goa as the most corrupt state in India; is anyone surprised? Goa's Government comprises of Smugglers, Pimps, Drug Lords, Money Launderers, Thugs, Criminals etc; so what type of activities they will encourage? I was shocked on a recent visit on the seriousness of drugs, prostitution, alcohol abuse with underage youngsters at nightclubs; who supports this moral desecration in Goa? Can these go on in small Goa without blessings of disgustful ruling politicians? Are these the same politicians we sell our souls for bikes, electronics, illegal favours, land conversions, sponsorships, alcohol, paying amenities etc When will Goans realize that no matter how protective they are of their families/children or however moral they try to portray themselves; by actually supporting despicable politicians for selfish gains; the evil they support will come around and affecting their families/society. Overseas Goans are no less as various football tournaments, dances, Tiatrs etc publicize Goa's Most Corrupt/Criminal Politicians. Goans are masters of excuses e.g." no good people to vote for" but surely the little things like not glorifying Anti-Goans would help!! Bottom line is that Goa’s Extremely Corrupt Politicians are nothing but reflection of an Extremely Corrupt Goan Society (Local & Overseas). We deserve Politicians that we elect, glorify & publicize and if we want to project a good image of Goa/Goans or if we want Goa to progress the right way, then it is paramount that we first clear our filth in our own backyard & within ourselves!!

Dum Maro Hypocrisy

I resent Bollywood degrading Goans particularly Women. The recent release of the Movie Dum Maro Dum is really serious negative publicity. I hoped in vain that the screening be stopped but at the same time I question the root cause? Who gave approvals to shoot the movie? Transparency International recently reported Goa as the most corrupt state in India; is anyone surprised? Goa's Government comprises of Smugglers, Pimps, Drug Lords, Money Launderers, Thugs, Criminals etc; so what type of activities they will encourage? I was shocked on a recent visit on the seriousness of drugs, prostitution, alcohol abuse with underage youngsters at nightclubs; who supports this moral desecration in Goa? Can these go on in small Goa without blessings of disgustful ruling politicians? Are these the same politicians we sell our souls for bikes, electronics, illegal favours, land conversions, sponsorships, alcohol, paying amenities etc When will Goans realize that no matter how protective they are of their families/children or however moral they try to portray themselves; by actually supporting despicable politicians for selfish gains; the evil they support will come around and affecting their families/society. Overseas Goans are no less as various football tournaments, dances, Tiatrs etc publicize Goa's Most Corrupt/Criminal Politicians. Goans are masters of excuses e.g." no good people to vote for" but surely the little things like not glorifying Anti-Goans would help!! Bottom line is that Goa’s Extremely Corrupt Politicians are nothing but reflection of an Extremely Corrupt Goan Society (Local & Overseas). We deserve Politicians that we elect, glorify & publicize and if we want to project a good image of Goa/Goans or if we want Goa to progress the right way, then it is paramount that we first clear our filth in our own backyard & within ourselves!!

EXTREMELY IMPORTANT - GOANS PLEASE READ/ACT. Appeal for Azad Maidan Protest Meet on 15th March 2011

Dear Goans, Ref the (1)Appeal (2)Appeal Video and (3)YouTube Link. I personally appeal to all Goans (Local & Overseas) to strongly support the same in whatever way possible i.e. attending the protest in large numbers; for Non Resident Goans I appreciate that you are not on the ground but let's look at what we "CAN DO". Some suggestions are: (1) Please spread this email far and wide to all of your Family and Friends (2) Publicise on various media including Local Print, Social & other to strongly support the same. Including using your media contacts in your respective countries to widely publicise this protest meeting (3) Speak to your Family /Friends on this Meeting and the urgent need of the hour for Goans to unite and fight for the preservation of our beautiful state & identity (4) Convince your family and friends in Goa to attend the meeting and possibly sponsor any related tranportation/co-ordination costs (5) Contact the co--ordinators of this meeting to offer your resources/sponsorships and even Moral Support!! Goans this is now or never, what we do now will ultimately result in the future of Goa, Goans & our Identity. The Clock is ticking..we do not have much time Left.... TIME TO ACT IS NOW! Arwin Mesquita, UAE.

The Impact of Mining on Goa's Environment - a video.wmv

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f7ds3veDt3A&feature=player_embedded

Goa State Terror

With respect to the recently publicized cases coming out in of Police Brutality/Atrocities, Goans should not stop at only resolving the respective cases but must pursue at the urgent cleansing of the entire system i.e. from recruitment to police action. Whilst surely there are cases of good actions of Police in helping citizens & ensuring justice, there are also many cases where Police are actively involved in and supporting various anti-social activities e.g. the Critical Drugs issue in Goa. In fact, the system of Police recruitment involves high level of corruption and influence (particularly by Politicians); saying which how can we expect a Credible Police Force? I think the main culprits however are Specific Long Time Politicians who themselves are known criminals, smugglers, goons etc and these Politicians, in addition to using their personal goons/gangs, also use the State Police to terrorize & intimidate citizens who fight against the exploitation, destruction, loot of our beautiful state and people. For instance, it is hard for me to believe that the unfortunate case of Cipriano Fernandes does not have some Powerful Political connection/backing. But to be fair to the Police, I also think that many times even good Policeman are influenced, threatened & compromised by specific Powerful//Corrupt/Evil Politicians!!

Civil rights activists to launch campaign for special status

http://www.oheraldo.in/news/Local%20News/Civil-rights-activists-to-launch-campaign-for-special-status/44569.html

Civil rights activists to launch campaign for special status

HERALD REPORTER

Civil rights activists to launch campaign for special status
HERALD REPORTER
PANJIM, JAN 8
With meager 450 square kilometers disposable land left in Goa, the civil rights activists have decided to propel a movement demanding Special Status for the state by amending the Constitution of India.
“It’s never late. The constitution was amended many times,” renowned social activist Mathany Saldanha told an informal meeting at Goa International Centre, Dona Paula on Saturday evening.
“We welcome everyone to come here but don’t buy the land and make us stranger,” Saldanha said in his half an hour speech which led the discussion on the roadmap to move the state government give special status to Goa.
The participating activists including Rui Da Gama, Florian Lobo, Yatish Naik, Julio D’Silva and others resolved that the state legislative assembly should pass a resolution pressing for the special status.
Saldanha said that the land in Goa is already under forest, agricultural, coastal belt and already utilized. “We are left with only 450 square kilometers of land which needs to be protected for future generations,” he said.
He said that soon after the liberation the Goans were either divided on the basis of caste and religion or also terrified after facing 450 years of Portuguese rule.
“We never had guts to tell the central government what we want. That’s why we had to fight every time. May it be opinion poll or Konkani language agitation,” Saldanha, who also chairs National Fishermen’s Forum, said.
“Then fathers of constitution did not feel it wise to give representation to Goa in the constitution. That’s why we are suffering now,” he said adding that there is lot of insecurity which has come in the fate of Goa.
Saldanha has said that with no provision to protect the land, majority of it is being given for commercial activity.
“This has resulted in large influx of people from outside. Does Goa have capacity to contain this population?” he questioned.
He said that special status is the only thing which can protect the land of Goa. “People are feeling insecure. The special status will cease buying of any land in the state,” Saldanha said.
During the interaction, the activists reminded the assurance given by Congress President Sonia Gandhi during last assembly election to give special status to Goa.
They recalled that even after the liberation, then prime minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru had promised that Goa’s special identity, language and culture would be protected.

Churchill Alemao & Goa

In June 2010, PWD Minister Churchill Alemao publicized in a Dubai newspaper, for me to bring Goa’s issues to him. I spoke to him at length on issues threatening Goa/Goans. For the benefit of his ‘privileged’ supporters, these are not any personal favors or incentives for me but issues threatening all Goans; including his ‘privileged’ supporters. To ask for Goa is paramount over anything else and is not only the responsibility of some; why can’t his ‘privileged’ supporters ask the same? My discussions with Churchill were based on a 2008 UAE Goan Signature Campaign which included: (1) Special Status to protect Land & Identity (2) Measures to address reducing Goan Demographics (3) Indiscriminate/Illegal mining destroying the Environment (4) Mega-Projects (Including Raheja’s at Carmona) (5) High Taxes/restrictions on non-goan real estate purchases (5) Environment destruction via Hill Cutting & other activities (6) Sewerage (7) Employment opportunities/transparencies for Overseas Goans wishing to return, (8) MOPA and (9) Konkani , which has no rightful status even after 20 years of being declared Official Language (So who actually gained politically from the Konkani Agitation; nothing concrete has happened for Konkani and innocent people lost their lives in vain) The signature campaign/issues were also sent to Mr. Alemao‘s official Varca address in July 2010. So far He has not responded/acted on any of the issues; nothing rose in the recent Assembly session. Now as his Daughter Valanka plans to contest elections from Benaulim, I request her plans/views on these critical issues? If the Alemaos don’t respond/act then surely they have no interest in Goa, Goans & our Identity. I hoped in the 1980’s on Churchill delivering Great things for Goa/Goans but now feel betrayed and feel that Goa/Goans have been taken for a long false ride. There are Goans who ignore the latter for selfish reasons or personal benefits, suffocate their conscience and by doing so, contribute towards the destruction of Goa & our Identity. Arwin Mesquita, UAE.
On 2 July 2010 14:38, Arwin Mesquita <arwinmesquita@gmail.com> wrote:

http://www.oheraldo.in/newscategory/Letters/13
Talk with ChurchillArwin Mesquita, Abu Dhabi
This is to inform Goans that during PWD Minister Churchill Alemao’s Dubai visit on Saturday 26 June, I discussed with him critical issues facing Goa and Goans. I agreed to send a list of concerns that Goans feel about the preservation of Goa and the Goan identity. These concerns are based on a signature campaign by UAE Goans (and some from Kuwait). It was given earlier to Goa Chief Minister Digambar Kamat on 17 November 2008, but not much action was taken on most critical points. We also discussed some innovative ideas on migrant control, real estate control, etc. Mr Alemao said he will look into the issues and raise it with his government at the earliest.
http://www.navhindtimes.in/opinion/letters-editor-93
Concerns about Goa
DURING the PWD Minister, Mr Churchill Alemao’s visit to Dubai recently, I had a long discussion with him regarding genuine/critical issues facing Goa and Goans. I agreed that I send him the list of requirements/concerns that many Goans think are needed, for the preservation of Goa and our prized identity; and for our posterity.These requirements/concerns are based on a UAE signature campaign signed by many UAE Goans. This signature campaign was earlier given to the Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat on November 17, 2008; to which I expressed my disappointment that there was not much action taken on most of the critical points indicated–mining menace, rampant hill-cutting, special status to protect Goa’s identity, mega-project menace, return of SEZ acquired land, un-controlled migrant influx and slums, lack of Konkani prominence, sewerage system, waste water recycling and to set up a high level task force to address employment at sustainable pay scales, for resident Goans and also to encourage the return of non-resident Goans. We also discussed some innovative ideas to address some critical issues like for example migrant control, real estate controls etc. Mr Churchill Alemao said he would look into the issues and raise it with his government at the earliest. Let’s hope the government takes some concrete steps for the good of Goa.ARWIN MESQUITA, Abu Dhabi

Colva Beach Message

Today, the Colva Beach appears to be telling us, that something is seriously wrong about Colva. The main beach has now divided itself into 2 areas; which is mainly facilitated by the sewage let out by the specific restaurants/hotels in the area, various illegalities, lack of action by relevant authorities, etc. The division is symbolic of the people of Colva, whose loyalties are divided or enslaved between two prominent South Goa Politicians, who have/had powerful positions in the Government and with whom the village is, has and is only going from bad to worse!! The sewage is symbolic of the high levels of corruption, apathy, lack of concern, selfishness, materialism, suffocating of conscience etc, amongst the villagers which is rapidly destroying this beautiful village. Yes, some critics will come out with all sorts of excuses like for example” It is easy for an overseas person to talk from outside and he/she should come to Goa and act instead of just giving views”. I think that these are just excuses from specific individuals who either have vested interests or are too complacent to act. I am sure that if this particular excuse is addressed then these same individuals will come out with more excuses to make themselves feel better. The solution is simple and it is all about choice; choice about (1) Who you elect and How much money you accept to surrender you vote (2) What you say or not say to improve the village (3) Who you support/praise (4) What illegality you pursue/support or turn a blind eye too or do not challenge (5) Who you defame, let down or do not support; despite those very persons fighting desperately for Colva on the ground, for the benefit of all Colvenkars etcArwin Mesquita, UAE