In a strong show of solidarity, presidents of 67 Communidades from across Goa gathered at the Chinchinim Communidade office today, intensifying the ongoing “Save Communidade, Save Goa” campaign. The meeting was convened in protest against the state government’s recent move to regularise illegal houses constructed on Communidade lands—traditional community-owned land systems unique to Goa.
The leaders unanimously passed a resolution vowing to oppose the move “tooth and nail,” labelling it a direct assault on their land rights, cultural heritage, and time-honoured legal framework. They warned that if the government proceeds with the decision, they are prepared to take the matter to the Supreme Court.
Their core concern is that legalising unauthorised structures on Communidade land could set a dangerous precedent, promoting further encroachments and eroding the autonomy and authority of these centuries-old land-holding institutions.
Meanwhile, Minister Mauvin Godinho confirmed that the Goa government intends to table a bill that would regularise not only houses illegally built on government land but also those on Communidade property. He defended the move by citing court precedents, which he claimed have typically allowed for regularisation rather than blanket demolition.
As tensions continue to mount, Communidades across the state are planning a wider mobilisation to protect their land and uphold Goa’s traditional land management system. Leaders have insisted that any legislative action must involve proper consultation with stakeholders and preserve the integrity of Communidade governance