PANJIM: Stating that Karnataka cannot be considered as an ‘enemy’ on the issue of water diversion, Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar told the House on Friday that the government is confident that the neighbouring State will ensure safety of Goans in their districts, the way Kannadigas are safe in this coastal State.
Parsekar told the State Legislative Assembly that Goa Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP) have already communicated to their Karnataka counterparts on taking stock of the situation and ensuring protection to Goans there.
“No need to panic. We are taking all precautions. I am confident that Karnataka government will ensure safety of Goans in their districts. People from Karnataka are freely entering the State border and are safe,” he said.
Independent MLA Rohan Khaunte raised the issue in the House stating that there is fear and anxiety in minds of Goans residing in Belguem or Hubli due to the sporadic incidents of violence in the border areas of Karnataka following the interim verdict on Mhadei water dispute. The MLA demanded that the State government take some measures to ensure safety of these people.
“Karnataka is our big brother. We cannot look at them as our enemy on the water diversion issue. Undoubtedly some unwanted forces have indulged in creating tension and provoking people. But for that we cannot react. We are civilized people and have to act accordingly,” Parsekar said.
Chief Minister said that the order on Mhadei water dispute is a judicial order and if aggrieved party feels then is free to challenge it. “Let us not get into inter-state fight. It is a judicial battle for one specific issue. If someone wants they can challenge it,” he said.
Parsekar said that there is no place for violence in a democracy. “As precautionary measure, we have already suspended inter-state bus transport for two-three days, but there is no suspension on buses entering Goa from Karnataka. They are very much safe here,” he stated.
