Tensions escalated in Cotarli on Wednesday as local villagers and workers gathered outside the Timblo Agricultural Office in protest, alleging discrimination against Goan laborers in favor of migrant workers from Jharkhand. The protest prompted immediate intervention by Sanguem police, who were present at the scene to monitor the situation.
The gherao marks the latest chapter in growing discontent among locals, who claim they are being systematically removed from employment on the agricultural farm, where Goans have reportedly worked for over five decades.
Chanda Gaonkar, a local worker, voiced the collective frustration: “They say they do not require Goans to work. They are happy to have workers from Jharkhand is what they said.”
Another local, Pradip Naik, echoed similar concerns, alleging that Goan workers are being harassed and neglected. “Migrants are being given various facilities, while locals receive nothing,” he said.
Vithal Gaonkar, the local panchayat member, highlighted the drastic drop in local employment at the farm. “There are about 20 people from Jharkhand and only around 7 locals working now. Earlier, there were over 20 Goans employed here.”
The protest reflects wider concerns across Goa about the replacement of local labor with out-of-state workers, raising questions about employment priorities, fair treatment, and the long-standing role of Goans in regional industries.
As of now, the company has not issued an official statement, while the police continue to maintain order at the protest site. Local leaders are urging government authorities to intervene and ensure job security for Goan workers in their own state.