Team Herald
MARGAO: The biggest critics in opposition have supported the govt for Goa’s betterment, and this betterment has to come, said Deputy Speaker of the Assembly Michael Lobo.
Speaking after receiving an award for personality of the year, Lobo said, “The present government which is formed is a mix of many parties, five to be precise. This coalition is for the betterment of Goa.” Lobo went on to advise the people to push the government to fulfill the promises they make. He stressed on protecting “our land and our heritage”.
Referring to precious Goan land being sold to non-Goans, Lobo said, “Government is forced to give the benefits meant for Goans to non-Goans as they become domiciles of Goa once they complete 15 years. A bill has to be passed in the Assembly prohibiting orchard and agriculture lands sale to non-Goans. This law is in other states, but we can’t pass it in Goa due to some problems. We had absolute majority last time but we couldn’t even after having several meets.”
The Deputy Speaker and Calangute MLA further said, “We have to be alert and have to be behind the MLAs because many issues are yet to be resolved. We need to address and bring solutions to the issues. Special Status is a must but the more pertinent issues of Goa need to be resolved.”
He also said that there is a Bhausaheb Bandodkar statue at the Assembly but former Leader of the Opposition and the Father of Opinion poll Jack Sequeira cannot be seen in the Assembly. “I am waiting for that. The person who awakened the people and made them vote for separate identity for Goa has to be respected and I will fight for it, I will work for it and won’t leave till his statue comes up,” Lobo said and added, “I will make sure I work for the dream of Goans to give utmost respect to Jack Sequeira.”
