MONDAY, JUNE 17, 2024
Team Herald
MARGAO: The ‘Romi Lipi Konknni Mogi’ group convened on Saturday at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao, to address the divisions hindering the progress of Konkani in the Roman script. Attendees unanimously recognised the importance of advocating for the recognition of the Roman script of Konkani in Goa's Official Language Act.
The group pledged to set aside differences and work together to advance Konkani in the Roman script. They highlighted the importance of cohesive action, pooling resources, and engaging in advocacy efforts to secure the status of the Roman script.
Retired Professor S M Borges, a distinguished authority in the field of Konkani linguistics, asserted that the Official Language Act is not fully implemented nor upheld in its true spirit within the State of Goa. "What has been implemented is not an official State language but rather a State script, with priorities heavily favouring Devanagari, while sidelining the efforts made in Konkani or the Roman script," he alleged.
Speaking to reporters, Domnic Fernandes expressed satisfaction at the overwhelming response received from Konkani enthusiasts. "We will be organising another meeting, with a broader inclusion of Roman Konkani enthusiasts in the group, ensuring that our next action plan is implemented with full strength,’ he said.
Fernandes explained the rationale behind calling for the meeting, citing the prevalent divisions among Konkani enthusiasts, particularly those advocating for the Roman script in Goa. Jose Salvador Fernandes highlighted that after thorough deliberations during the meeting, it became evident that injustice persists against a section of Konkani speakers, particularly those who use the Roman script. "The discussions revealed a widespread concern regarding the lack of due recognition accorded to the Roman script within the Official Language Act," he stated.
Kannady Afonso, echoing the sentiments of many Roman script Konkani enthusiasts, affirmed their commitment to strengthening unity in the days ahead to champion the cause and development of Konkani in the Roman script.
