SATURDAY, MAY 18, 2024
Team Herald
The Scheduled Tribes (ST) community leaders across Goa have pledged their support to the candidates of the I.N.D.I.A. Alliance for the forthcoming parliamentary elections. This decision comes after years of frustration and unfulfilled promises by the ruling BJP government at both the state and central levels.
The ST community in Goa has been advocating for political reservation for the past two years, seeking representation that reflects their demographic significance and addresses their long-standing grievances. Since attaining ST status in 2003, the community has faced numerous challenges, including the lack of utilization of tribal funds, unfilled job vacancies, pending tenancy cases, and the absence of basic amenities in tribal areas.
Despite relentless efforts and protests, their demands for political reservation were met with disappointment when the BJP government proposed the "Readjustment of Representation of Scheduled Tribes Bill 2024," which was vehemently opposed by the ST community. This bill, seen as a mere electoral tactic, further delayed the process of securing reservation for STs in the assembly.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the BJP's approach, ST leaders resolved to take decisive action during the upcoming parliamentary elections. Meetings were held across villages and talukas to raise awareness about the community's plight and the need to hold the ruling government accountable for its failures.
Amidst concerns about the BJP's intentions regarding constitutional amendments, particularly regarding reservations, opposition parties have united under the I.N.D.I.A. Alliance to safeguard the Constitution. The alliance has received overwhelming support from various quarters, including the ST community leaders, who view it as a beacon of hope for protecting their rights.
Key figures within the I.N.D.I.A. Alliance, such as the Aam Adami Party MLA Venzy Viagas, Goa Forward Party Chief Vijay Serdesai, and Opposition Party Leader Yuri Almeao, have consistently advocated for political reservation and extended their support to the ST cause.
The Congress party, a prominent member of the I.N.D.I.A. Alliance, has pledged to address the concerns of the ST community within one year of assuming power, including the notification of Scheduled Areas, settlement of forest rights claims, and allocation of tribal sub-plan funds as per population percentage.
In response to these assurances and in protest against the BJP's betrayal, the STs of Goa have declared their support for I.N.D.I.A. Alliance candidates, Shri Ramakant Khalaph for North Goa and Capt. Viriato Fernandes for South Goa. This move underscores their commitment to democracy, tribal rights, and the preservation of the Indian Constitution.
