Public opinion is gaining momentum for retaining Dabolim as the only airport for Goa and since this is a state subject it can be resolved only through politics and not by apolitical forums of the clergy supported by Archbishop’s house.
Research done through feasibility reports and EIA’s studies clearly state that Mopa, if turned into reality, will be a disaster for Goa’s eco-system and the economy. At this critical juncture the clergy should strengthen the hands of Churchill Alemao who is spearheading the movement and capitalize on the sabbatical of Parrikar as the incumbent CM does not have the wherewithal to confront heavyweights like the Alemaos who fight for a just cause for South Goa. There is a vertical split between North and South Goa due to polarization taking place be it on religious grounds or other saffron-related factors and from time immemorial since liberation, south Goa has been neglected and at the receiving end, by virtue of North Goa ruling the roost and enforcing their might by their outbursts on convent education, implementation of the helmet rule etc.
The miniscule four MLAs belonging to the minority community who are rightly deemed as alter boys of the high priest Parrikar and who owe allegiance to the BJP have proved to be ineffective to raise their voices of decent against the ruling dispensation as they are selfishly guarding their own turn and fiefdom for pelf.
Under the circumstances there should not a dichotomy and conflict of interest in fighting unitedly of like minded persons for retaining Dabolim as the only airport and consigning Mopa to the dustbin of history.
Everette Assis Telles, Chandor
