“Arlekar calls upon people to be responsible towards environment” and “Government to develop eco-tourism villages in forests”.
Arlerkar’s at length explanation and classification of the coconut tree is a feeble attempt to convince the people when the people are already aware of the real reasons behind the amendment of the said act.
Contradicting the above, Arlekar further goes on advising the people to be responsible towards the environment when the government itself is hell bent on promoting acts detrimental towards the environment. Arlekar further blames the people for the environmental degradation when the very acts made by the Government and which exist at present are ignored and flouted by the very government to grant favours for a select few. How much effort has the present government done to create employment opportunities for the Goans? The exodus of Goans towards the UK, America, Gulf etc. is a proof of the same. It is the government that is making a mockery of festivals like Vanamahotsav by bringing in legislations like the one against the coconut tree which is the most sacred tree particularly related to the Goan identity. Arlekar also being aware that Goa being known for its greenery shamelessly supports his government for its anti environment laws to finish the very greenery.
Arlekar’s statements on laws in the “tiger corridor” issue exposes his double speak as he ignores/ denies or pretends to be unaware of the presence of tigers in the Mhadei wild life sanctuary and camouflages his real intention with words like “waiting for proper reports”, “Institution of a long term study” even the though wild life institution in India(WWI) has confirmed the presence of tiger in the Mhadei region and also when the state forest department census of 2002, 2006 and 2010 showed the presence of tigers and the Union Ministry of Environment and forests (MoEF) has sent a proposal to declare Mhadei as a tiger reserve. It is thus clear that conflict of interest and their selfish interests prompts our politicians to make statements which are contrary to facts. Even Jesus had said “Even the devil will quote scriptures to suit his own purpose”.
Going through the above headlines, it reminds me of the famous popular song “Games people play” by the band “Inner Circle” and some verses of that song are reproduced below
Oh the games people play now
Every night and every day now
Never meaning what they say, yeah
Never saying what they mean
And they teach you how to meditate
Read up your horoscope and change your faith
And further more to hell with hate……………..
First you are giving up your sanity
Turn your back on humanity, yeah
And the games people play
