The campaign by the Global Romi Lipi Abhiyan (GRLA) is gaining strong momentum ahead of the upcoming monsoon session of the Goa Legislative Assembly, with increasing support from social activists, cultural groups, and leading tiatrists.
The GRLA is urging all legislators—across party lines—to pass two long-pending resolutions: the inclusion of Romi Konkani in the school curriculum, and the formation of the Goa State Minorities Commission.
The movement, which seeks due recognition for Romi Lipi, the Roman script widely used to write Konkani, has gathered pace in recent weeks. With key voices from the world of tiatr and civil society stepping in, the campaign is building public pressure on the government to act decisively.
Senior tiatrist C D Silva said, “Romi Konkani is the lifeline of Goan theatre and music. Without its recognition in education, we are denying future generations access to their cultural roots.”
Veteran tiatrist Pascoal de Chicalim added, “The government must understand that Romi Konkani is not just a script, but a living tradition that has shaped our art and literature.”
Prominent dramatist Benzer Fernandes remarked, “We’ve waited too long. It’s time the script that carries the voice of the people is given its rightful place in the school system.”
Well-known comedian and performer Riston emphasised the script’s widespread usage, saying, “Most of our tiatr scripts, songs, and even social commentary are in Romi. Recognizing it in education is just common sense.”
Actor Anthony D’Silva underlined the importance of forming the Goa State Minorities Commission, stating, “Goa is home to diverse communities, and a dedicated minorities commission would ensure their concerns are addressed in a structured and timely manner.”
The GRLA is also ramping up its outreach efforts through public events, social media, and petitions, building a broad coalition of supporters across Goa.
Activists argue that while Devanagari remains the official script for Konkani, Romi Lipi continues to flourish in cultural life, religious spaces, media, and everyday communication.
“The time for symbolic recognition is over. We need legislative action,” the GRLA said in a statement.