TEAM HERALD

teamherald@herald-goa.com

PANJIM: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Goa unit, today slammed the Congress party and other groups for giving a political colour to Mopa and Dabolim airport issue.

Addressing a press briefing at the party head office in the capital city, spokesman Damu Naik alleged that few Congress leaders were misguiding activists on the issue to gain brownie points for the Lok Sabha polls next year.

“Congress and some other elements are misguiding people on Mopa and Dabolim airport issue. Mopa airport is necessity for the State,” he said.

The statement comes on the eve of a public rally being held at Lohia Maidan in Margao to oppose the proposed green-field project at Mopa. The forum, which is holding the rally, fears Mopa’s entry would force the existing Dabolim airport to shut down its operations.

Naik said the House was informed of a report that gave approval for the co-existence of both the airports. He rubbished the demand of activists to move the naval base from Dabolim saying it was crucial for the security of the country.

“We can’t take a risk with the nation’s security. There are increasing threats from neighbouring rivals, including China, who are using pressure techniques by all means on the country,” he stated.

Naik said that the State government has already assured that seven kilometres radius land from the centre of Mopa airport will not be allowed for any commercial development purpose.

“Tomorrow anyone will accuse the government for not giving them jobs without even applying for it… We are always clear that we are for the welfare of the people of Goa and they will stay here,” he said.

The spokesman, however, declined to offer any comment when it was pointed out that the Church in Goa has also been opposing the new project. He said the government was open to discussion.