Goa Forward Party chief and Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai has slammed the state government over its handling of the Plaster of Paris (PoP) Ganesh idol issue, calling the Rs 200 aid offered to Goan artisans an insult rather than meaningful support.
“I raised the issue of PoP Ganesh idols so that strict action would be taken. But what’s more disappointing is the token amount of ₹200 being given to our traditional Goan artisans—this is nothing short of 'भीक' (a hand-out),” Sardesai told reporters.
He urged the government to not only enforce the ban on PoP idols effectively but also provide substantial financial support and protection to local artisans who rely on idol-making as part of their traditional livelihoods.
Sardesai further emphasized the need for structured policy measures to preserve and promote traditional occupations in Goa, especially in light of environmental regulations that impact cultural practices.