Sanguem MLA and Minister Subhash Phal Dessai has issued a sharp warning that he will launch a public agitation if the Goa government proceeds with the proposal to declare a tiger reserve, as recommended by the Supreme Court-appointed Central Empowered Committee (CEC). The committee has directed the State to notify the reserve within three months, but Phal Dessai has become the first minister to openly oppose the move.
Speaking to the media outside the Chief Minister’s residence, Phal Dessai said he would not allow the people of Netravali to be displaced “for a tiger that no one has seen.” He asserted that the livelihoods and homes of the villagers must not be sacrificed based on what he described as an uncertain premise.
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The minister also stated that he would resist the proposal even if the Supreme Court were to direct the State to go ahead with the notification. “If needed, I am ready to go to jail,” he declared, signalling a firm stance against any action that could lead to the eviction of local residents.
Phal Dessai’s strong opposition has intensified the debate surrounding the tiger reserve proposal, which has drawn mixed reactions from environmental groups and local communities. The State government has yet to announce its final decision on the matter.
