After my previous column, there were several queries regarding the efficacy of writing and raising awareness when tangible changes fail to materialise. The precarious situation in Goa was highlighted, despite the vehement opposition against the ruling party during the recently concluded assembly session. The crux of the matter was the absence of a concrete action plan to rectify the prevailing issues. It seemed as though criticisms were merely brushed aside without any substantial response. The opposition highlighted pressing concerns, yet the ruling party nonchalantly disregarded them, allowing life to carry on as usual, leaving citizens to ponder on the impact, if any.
I am reminded of a Netflix documentary, NARCOS, which narrates the tale of the most formidable and merciless drug lord in Columbia. One might speculate that with his ruthless tactics where no dissenters survived, he could have reigned like a monarch even without being elected. However, he met his demise, gunned down by law enforcement on a scorching rooftop, after being flushed out of his sanctuary. It merely took a handful of determined individuals to tenaciously track his movements and bring an end to the tyranny of the most malevolent of drug lords. Even the wealth clandestinely buried underground could not aid him. The underlying message of the story is that ultimately, goodness prevails over malevolence, offering us a glimmer of hope.
In the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections, there was a call for achieving a majority of 400 seats to facilitate constitutional amendments and unrestricted authority to pursue any agenda, regardless of its implications on the populace or their desires. The election results demonstrated that the silent majority unexpectedly wielded significant influence, akin to pulling a metaphorical "extra 2AB" from a hat, asserting their ability to sway the outcome of any election and emphasizing that they should not be underestimated. A glimmer of optimism emerges from this realization.
Closer to home, we witnessed the unwavering resolve of Claude Alvares and his esteemed Goa Foundation. Despite facing defamation, online harassment, and scorn, he steadfastly held his ground and engaged in a protracted, arduous, and potentially costly struggle to ensure that the mineral riches of Goa would be a boon for all its inhabitants, not just a privileged few. This remarkable feat was accomplished at a time when even the authorities had chosen to turn a blind eye to this matter, disregarding the welfare of the people. A glimmer of hope shines through.
All the discussions in the Assembly were not in vain; in the event that the elected representatives proved ineffective, the citizens resolved to compel the authorities to take action. The primary issue plaguing the State is the inundation of the real estate industry, as Goa is perceived as a highly sought-after investment hub for individuals from various Indian regions. The real estate lobby has acknowledged that virtually anything is permissible in Goa. Hills slopes, orchards, fields, and forests are all available for development, a mere application is sufficient. The regulations pose no hindrance, regardless of the adverse impact on the local flora and fauna or the depletion of natural springs.
Private forest or No Development Zones are simply reclassified to settlement or commercial with a straightforward application stating the previous zoning was incorrect. It is a veritable free-for-all. None of these developments are accessible to locals, but the burden of pressure on electricity, water, and waste disposal will be shouldered by locals. There is Hope...
There is a growing number of conscientious individuals in Goa who are becoming more vocal about issues concerning illegal property conversions and failure to comply with minimum standards. Their efforts have prompted the Government to reevaluate the violations, with the possibility of revoking project permissions if found to be substantiated. While specific names are unnecessary to mention, these individuals are widely known for their easy to understand but incisive videos, fictional phone conversations, and traditional Goan folk songs that resonate with the community.
Their remarkable creativity has led to significant revelations, shaking the core of the real estate sector in Sancoale, Pompurpa, Old Goa, Reis Magos, and Divar Island. This grassroots movement offers hope for positive change.
The incumbent administration granted Zuari Agro land for industrial purposes and job creation; only a fraction has been utilised thus far. Subsequently, the company was sold off, transferring the land rights to a new entity that promptly engaged in real estate development. Is it permissible to trade acquired land in such a manner? Nevertheless, the Supreme Court recently adjudicated in favor of an individual who had his land unlawfully seized six decades ago, reclaiming 24 acres in Maharashtra.
Following the same rationale, land allocated for industrial ventures can be reclaimed if left dormant. It is fundamentally unjust for privately owned or comunidade lands to be expropriated, only to see them transformed into residential projects by another private entity. How was such a situation was ever approved by the Government? Despite these disheartening events, there remains a glimmer of hope.
The Town & Country Planning (TCP) Department plays a pivotal role in facilitating the orderly and strategic development of the State. Regrettably, in an attempt to circumvent planning regulations, a series of amendments have been introduced, starting with 16B, followed by 17(2), and most recently, 39(A), all crafted to sidestep planning laws and grant discretionary permissions on a case-by-case basis.
The latest amendment facing legal challenge in the High Court is 39(A), it takes time to collate the data to mount a legal challenge. There is hope.
While mobilising the entire populace for a mass movement may prove unattainable, those unable to do so but still harbor concerns ought to explore alternative avenues to bolster these grassroots people led initiatives aimed at PRESERVING GOA, for the state is in dire need of assistance. To remain silent at this critical juncture is to invite regret in the future. Engaging in crowd funding, participating in candlelight vigils/ village meetings, disseminating information provided by activists, and engaging in dialogue with local council members/ legislators to articulate one's perspective are all meaningful ways to contribute. There is hope.
The Chief Minister of Goa has demanded accountability from road contractors and PWD engineers for the substandard road quality revealed by the recent rains. The newly elected MP, Capt. Viriato, candidly addressed the prevalent issue that many choose to ignore – the pervasive "bribe culture". There is hope.
The Chief Minister also instructed his administration to take stringent measures against individuals littering on the roadside, leading to notorious blackspots. He emphasized that in addition to imposing fines, the vehicles should be confiscated. Furthermore, he suggested that the public should capture and report such incidents to the authorities. This marks a positive development, as the Government had previously discontinued the sentinel scheme due to privacy issues, despite its effectiveness in fining thousands of traffic offenders. The reintroduction of the "Sentinel App" could serve as a viable solution to address both traffic violators and litterbugs. There is optimism for the future.
Whether it involves laddos in Andhra Pradesh or the poor quality roads in Goa, bribes are identified as the underlying problem. The other major headaches in Goa is rampant conversion of land on a whim and disposal of garbage irresponsibly. If you dear reader, takes a stand against bribery, not applying for illegal conversion or littering, regardless of the consequences, it is a crucial step, to preserve Goa particularly for our future generations.
Never mind that these problems seem insurmountable, just do your bit, Gandhi said: “BE THE CHANGE YOU WISH TO SEE”. The silent majority is standing up and wants to be counted. With this newfound awareness, there is a more than glimmer of hope on the horizon.
Remember, to live in hope is to stave off despair, as the age-old adage goes.
Viva Goa!
(The author prefers to write rather than chat in a balcao)