Vasco MLA Krishna Daji Salkar has come under heavy criticism from local activist Swapnesh Sherlekar, who accused the legislator of making contradictory and hypocritical statements on the contentious coal handling issue in Mormugao.
Sherlekar pointed out that Salkar, in a recent media interaction, had defended coal handling operations at the port, claiming that the project would enhance connectivity and boost tourism in the coastal state. He further asserted that late Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar’s concerns over the project were linked only to its financial burden on the exchequer and not to objections over its impact.
The activist, however, recalled that during a public hearing on environmental concerns in 2017, Salkar himself had taken a diametrically opposite stance. At that time, he had openly criticised coal handling, describing it as an activity that benefits only corporate houses while leaving local residents to suffer from pollution and health hazards. By defending the project now, Sherlekar said, the MLA has contradicted his own earlier position and betrayed the sentiments of the local community.
The activist urged Vasco residents to reflect on the MLA’s shifting positions, stressing that coal handling in Goa has long been opposed by civil society, environmentalists, and local communities. He warned that allowing such projects in the name of development would cause long-term ecological damage and undermine public health.