In the recent past we have had a Dalit, a Muslim and a woman as President of India. It is the turn of the small but vibrant Christian community to justifiably lay claim to this high office. The community has rendered yeoman service in the field of education, providing affordable and highly-sought after institutions all over the country. In addition, the community is renowned for its social service, upliftment of the downtrodden and marginalized, and for providing a large number of homes and shelters for the old, destitute, orphans , the sick and dying. Moreover, a president from the Christian community will also add lustre to the image of the country in the international community.
Prof Robert Castellino, Calangute
Hafta collection
‘Herald’ is playing an important role in opening the eyes of both the police and the government. For this, I really thank you. Goa Police is always in the news for some or the other reason. Our Home Minister has assured ‘Zero tolerance to corruption’ and free hand to Police without any political intervene.
I would like to bring to the notice of the Director of Goa Police, Home Minister and General Public the ‘setting’ in Panaji Police station. It is rumoured that a lady PSI is involved in looking after all the ‘setting’ (Hafta collection) at the Panaji Police station.
Before the Code of Conduct came into force, the said LPSI was transferred, but yet she is on duty at the Panaji Police Station. All the officers such as Inspectors and above were transferred immediately, but not her.
The Home Minister should look into the matter and find out the ‘Godfather’ who is holding her transfer orders and allowing her to continue herduties at the Panaji Police Station.
I has also been confirmed that there are some more officers involved in this ‘racket’ who will be getting their share from this so-called ‘setting’ (hafta collection) which is collected in lakhs of rupees. If corruption is stopped, then the common man will be able to live at peace.
Mellisa Mascarenhas, Caranzalem
Transparency required
The best way to solve Mopa airport issue would be to take all the general public from north and south Goa, into confidence by implementing voting system using EVMs. Only then we can be sure of the majority views on this issue. It is not advisable to speak of whether Late Mathany Saldanha, opposed Mopa, as a United Goans Democratic Party member and supported it after joining Bharatiya Janata Party. It is human nature that he could have changed his mind on learning about the advantages of having Mopa. It would be wise to vote and obtain public opinion on this very contentious issue. Although a few people have a vision and know the advantage of having a green field airport, others who are not aware of the future air traffic flow in Goa, will always oppose it. I am sure only Mr. Parrikar can take such decisions and show the people of Goa in particular and India in general, that only Goans have the USP of tolerance and this is a step forward towards good Governance.
Simon Mendes, Bahrain
Controversial issue
Like school children, our politicians – are creating a storm in a cup of water on the subject of Mopa and Dabolim airports.
The Congress, since it has no other subject to instigate the people, having destroyed Goa’s environment, its paddy fields, forests, etc., is trying to rake up the Mopa issue – a matter that can be solved across the table.
Having read a news item attributed to Mrs. Alina Saldanha that Mr. Mathany was for withdrawal of Navy from Dabolim, I request Mr. Parrikar that if that be true, to introduce in the next assembly session a resolution requesting the Central Government to immediately order the Navy to vacate the Dabolim airport and had over the same to civilian authorities. That resolution should be passed unanimously by the assembly and that will settle the matter and gain creditability of the BJP.
Augusto Monteiro, Loutolim
The ECS trap
The Electronic Clearing System (ECS) adopted in Banks helps in deductions of monthly remittances to Institutions / Mutual Fund, payment of telephone bills, and other similar requirements. BSNL is offering rebate in bills for adopting such mode for payment. However, it has turned out a ‘trap’ for Mutual Fund investors who are lured to this system to invest under Systematic Investment Plan. Apart from the monthly amount, other hidden charges are also straight away deducted from Bank account under the pretext of ‘conditions apply’ which is always written in thin script. The investor remains ignorant and realizes it too late after being taken for a good ride as one has no control over it. The Bankers maintaining the account refuse to accept fresh instructions in this respect and charge penalty for not retaining amount for these transactions and has free hand in deducting any amount sought by them. It seems Banks are acting as agents of Mutual Fund Companies and also the brokers whose commission is deducted from account of investors. It is high time those investing see the invisible ‘trap’ before opting for ECS. The Regulatory Authorities needs to step in and stop such forced deductions in name of ECS mandate to Banks who should accept only latest instructions.
