Team Herald
MARGAO: Refusing to look at the developments in the Assembly as a setback, the NGO Goyant Kollso Naka (GKN) said that it was a moral victory that so many MLAs discussed in detail how the three linear projects are harmful.
Holding a protest here, to reiterate their opposition to the three linear projects, which they said are only being pushed onto Goa for the transportation of coal, GKN expressed its gratitude to the MLAs who called and pushed for a resolution for scrapping of the three linear projects.
The GKN appealed to the MLAs across party lines to remain united against the projects so as to put pressure on the Central government.
GKN Co-Convenor Abhijit Prabhduesai said, “It was unfortunate that the division of votes on this issue in the Assembly did not take place but we hoped that the same can happen in the remaining days of the monsoon session of the Assembly.”
He further added that when they had met all the MLAs earlier, the feedback they received was that most of these MLAs were against the coal project.
“However, it appears that the hands and legs of these MLAs are tied and so they cannot speak from their heart against the three linear projects. They either face compulsion from their party or face the risk of Enforcement Directorate or Income Tax raids,” Prahbhudesai said while talking about those MLAs who did not speak on the issue.
He also criticised the Chief Minister for giving false assurances on these projects including double tracking.
