In connection with the train full of migrants arriving in Goa at the Tivim railway station, the talathis from these three villages were directed to verify and confirm the whereabouts of these labour class migrants. The talathis were directed by the Bardez Mamlatdar , Laxmikant Kuttikar seeking more information, asking them to find out the reason for them to come to Goa, their present stay and any details about their employment in Goa.
When contacted Colvale Sarpanch, Nityanand Kandolkar told Herald that this is the first time an incident like has taken place where over 1,000 migrants got down at Tivim railway station.
“We have checked many houses after being directed by the mamlatdar to do so. Over the last two to three days I have been enquiring with the people in my locality but have not found any,” said Kandolkar.
One can recall that earlier this year in January, the youth of Tivim submitted letters to the panchayat and Mapusa Police Station regarding the migrant’s menace at the Tivim railway station and surrounding areas. In the letter, they had alleged that migrants are illegally staying in the area without any identity cards and legal permissions. They are also involved in many illegal activities and thefts in the villages.
Founder Member of Revolutionary Goans, Manoj Parab pointed out that this is the first time a train with so many migrants was spotted at a single station. “So many of them encroach into the open places in the village and are involved in many illegal activities as well as roadside businesses. This creates the danger of thefts, rapes and also the supply of drugs supply in our villages,” said Manoj.
“They come to Goa for work and they are then given a piece of land either legally or illegally in connivance with the local panchayat. They stay there and then become permanent voters. Thus adding to the vote bank of the politician,” said a local from Sirsaim.
