Historic Goa
Opinion Poll
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As 16th January is round the corner, let us unfold the events that led to the memorable Opinion Poll also known as Asmitai Dis (identity day), for the sake of those uninitiated who may not be aware of the trials and tribulations the populace underwent for achieving this defining moment in history.
Reflecting on the legacy of the historic Goa Opinion Poll held on January 26, 1967, it’s clear that this event was a pivotal moment in the state’s history. The poll was a response to the strong opposition from Goans to the proposal of merging with Maharashtra, which was perceived as a threat to their unique identity and culture. With 80 percent voter turnout, the result was a decisive victory for the anti-merger camp, with 54.20 percent of the votes cast in favour of retaining Goa’s separate status.
This decision underscored the strong sense of identity and pride among Goans who were determined to preserve their distinctive culture and heritage. The opinion poll is often seen as a defining moment, allowing Goa to chart its own course and eventually become a full-fledged state within the Indian Union in 1987. It also highlighted the importance of democratic processes and the power of the people to shape their own destiny.
Dr Jack de Sequeira, often referred to as the “Father of the Opinion Poll” played a pivotal role in this historic event. His leadership and determination were crucial in ensuring that Goa retained its unique identity. The Poll was a significant victory for the people of South Goa, who were passionate about preserving their Asmitai and Goenkarponn. Despite the first Chief Minister of Goa, Dayanand Bandodkar, favouring the merger, the strong opposition led by Dr Sequeira ensured that. Goa remained a separate identity. This decision had a lasting impact on the political and landscape of the state. It is unfortunate that the contribution and legacy of Dr Sequeira has not been fully recognised. The current ruling dispensation’s ideology of “Sabha Saath, Sabaka Vikas, Sabha Prayas” does not align well with the objectives of the opinion poll.
Everette Assis Telles, Margao
Select Kholi
and Rohit
In a couple of days, there will be selection of Indian Cricket Team for the ICC Champions Trophy. And India will eye to send a best combination.
A lot had happened in the past days for Indian Cricket players especially to Virat Kholi and Rohit Sharma as far as their batting is concerned. No doubt they were really woefully in bad form as far as the last 2 test series are concerned. But that does not mean they have to be dumped as they say form is temporary but class is permanent.
It is our humble plea to the Selectors that to please select them as lot of Cricket is left in both the players as both are having vast experience and had served Indian Cricket with flying colours in the past. Their record speaks volumes.
Jerry Fernandes, Vanxim
Stress can affect
immune system
Amid growing concerns over detection of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in India, health experts have reportedly emphasized that the virus is not new and advised people to stay calm and take basic precautions. HMPV that causes upper respiratory infection, recently gained attention following an outbreak in China. It is not a new virus and was reportedly identified in 2001.
Though it is an emerging health concern according to experts there is no reason for panic. The probable reason for panic among citizens is that the catastrophe that unfolded during the Covid-19 pandemic is still fresh in the mind of Indians.
However, panic which results in intense feelings of anxiety, can cause physical symptoms and stress. Stress can induce symptoms of anxiety. It can suppress the immune system by increasing hormones and resulting in reduction in the number of White Blood Cells (WBCs) that fight infection.
The immune system plays a vital role in defending the body against disease by fighting off invading pathogens. Increased stress has a direct impact on how our body reacts to invasion by pathogens. Stress can be personal. The longer the stress, the more the effect on the immune system. Traumatic experiences from the past can continue to affect the immune system. Some ways to reduce stress and increase immunity include getting enough sleep, practicing Yoga, meditation, positive thinking and behavioral modification.
If one does not manage the stress levels, chronic inflammation can lead to development and progression of many diseases of the immune system.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Untouchability akin
to silent terrorism
Parakala Prabhakar has said, “In today’s India, it becomes easy for someone who tolerates the majoritarian polity to be tolerant of economic inequality.” It happens because the ground for this has been prepared by casteism.
Casteism is based on inequality. It blurs the vision of seeing anything wrong in the celebration of becoming the third highest country in number of billionaires amid rising unemployment, inflation, inequality, and poor performance in human development and hunger alleviation.
As per the India Human Development Survey (IHDS-2) in 2011-12, 27 per cent of the respondents across India said that they had been following the practice of untouchability.
Untouchability is like silent terrorism and the worst form of “othering”. It makes fun of India’s eternal message of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family).
Sujit De, Kolkata
