PANJIM: Indirectly saying that the Overseas Citizens of India (Goa) are creating anarchy kind of situation in the State, Minister for Waste Management, RDA and Ports Michael Lobo has said that the NRGs or OCI card holders must stay away from happenings in Goa and think about London and Portugal.
Speaking at a function called by the trade bodies in a starred hotel in the city, Lobo said that the expats settled abroad were poisoning the mind of locals which in turn in reflecting in opposition to developmental projects.
“Those holding OCI card should be more concerned about what is happening in Portugal or London. Leave Goa to us, we are here to take care of Goa,” Lobo said.
Stopping short of saying that the OCIs have no right to talk of Goa, he said, “When you go there don’t comment about Goa. You are Overseas Citizens of India. You should be more interested in what is happening in Portugal or what is happening in London”.
“We know you love Goa, but be positive for Goa. Do not bring roadblocks,” Lobo commented.
Referring to the usual apprehensions that construction of jetties under Central government’s Sagarmala project is to help transportation of coal in the State, Lobo said, “We don’t want to bring coal at Sinquerim or Cumbharjua (both in North Goa where jetties are proposed). If there is a jetty built for tourism purpose at Chapora River, the coal cannot come there. I think we have to be realistic.”
The minister said somebody has to stand and answer them. “I am there for that purpose. What is required for the State of Goa, I will stand and answer these people,” he added.
“If we (Goans) do not put our foot down; if we do not send a strong message to these people (OCIs) then they will poison the minds of real Goans,” he said.
“Some of our Goans will get carried away by such talks, such wrong messages being spread,” he stated.
Lobo said that his department has already got Environment Impact Assessment study conducted of Sagarmala projects for which two public hearings will follow.
“We will complete the jetty projects. Not only these six jetties (which are proposed) but we want more jetties, the smaller ones, to explore tourism in our state of Goa. We will want more than 20 small jetties to be built,” he added.
