The Goa Legislative Assembly witnessed high drama on July 25, 2025, during a heated discussion on a private member’s resolution moved by Revolutionary Goans Party (RGP) MLA Viresh Borkar. The resolution sought to formally define the terms "Person of Goan Origin" and "Goans" through a clear legal framework to protect the rights and identity of native Goans.
Borkar argued that an updated and well-defined policy was crucial to ensure the welfare of local Goans and to counter demographic changes in the state. However, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant opposed the resolution, maintaining that existing laws—specifically the Government Gazette notification dated February 10, 1995, and the Goa Succession, Special Notaries and Inventory Proceeding Act—already provide a legal definition of "Person of Goan Origin."
Despite the resolution being listed for discussion, Speaker Ramesh Tawadkar initially disallowed Borkar from speaking, triggering protests. In a dramatic turn, Borkar entered the well of the House, demanding the formation of a high-level committee to clearly define "Goan origin." Assembly marshals later removed him from the House amid uproar.
The opposition parties rallied behind Borkar, joining him in the well and disrupting proceedings. In a show of protest, some members tore official documents, forcing the Speaker to eventually allow Borkar to speak. However, the resolution was ultimately rejected by the House.
CM Sawant reaffirmed the government’s position, stating that while the current legal framework is sufficient, the government remains open to reviewing existing laws in light of evolving needs.
The episode underscored the deep political sensitivities surrounding Goan identity and demographic shifts, with the government emphasizing continuity through existing legal provisions and the opposition demanding updated legislation to better safeguard native interests.