Team Herald
MARGAO: Taking into consideration the alleged corruption in government offices, the illegalities and destruction of environment, several prominent activists of Goa have formed a forum to fight unitedly in protecting the state.
Members of the ‘Forum against Corruption, Illegalities and Destruction’ include Jayesh Shetgaonkar, Xencor Polgi, Rama Kankonkar, Satish Kamtikar, Anthony Michael, Alexander and others who have been tirelessly fighting against the illegal constructions across the State.
They appealed to other activists, besides youth, to join the forum to safeguard the interest of the public and the environment.
Addressing the reporters at Margao on Thursday, Jayesh Shetgaonkar, the forum president alleged that under the present BJP dispensation, corruption, illegalities and destructive so-called development have reached a new level.
“This is reflected in every facet of people’s lives from the total absence of rule of law, to issues like decimation of the ecology and serious health problems linked to environmental pollution, all of which are contributing to making the life of the common citizen unbearable,” he stated.
He opined that individuals are targeted when they voice out against the illegalities and hence thought of uniting.
“Today, Goa stands at the precipice and crossroads of a dark, dismal and bleak future. Under the present dispensation, Goa’s downward descent has been alarmingly rapid,” Jayesh said.
He informed that the forum will provide all the legal help to those fighting against the illegalities, corruption and destruction of the environment.
The group members alleged that corruption has reached unassailable heights due to the patronage of ministers, MLAs and elected representatives with a facilitating role being played by government officials and the administration including those responsible for ensuring law and order.
Xencor Polgi said his fight is against the illegalities and hence thought of joining the forum.
“If we see the present situation, bad days are ahead and hence all need to voice out against the illegalities now. We cannot allow the destruction of Goa and Goa’s environment,” he added.
The forum members alleged that Goa has gained a distressing reputation for the prevalence of “goon culture” thus creating extreme fear psychosis amongst the people.
They appealed to citizens to stop being accessories in the ongoing circus of destructive criminal activities and corruption by turning a blind eye as silent spectators.
