Tensions are escalating in Tiswadi as 40 Scheduled Tribe (ST) fishers have come forward alleging they were deliberately denied access to the 2023 fishing subsidies. The fishers claim that, despite holding two meetings with fisheries department officials, no action was taken to resolve their grievance, with the files allegedly being blocked by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO).
According to the affected fishers, the delay and inaction led to the subsidy funds being returned to the central government — a move they describe as a “deliberate act against the fishing community.” Representatives from the group accuse the state government of systemic neglect and discrimination, particularly toward the ST community dependent on traditional fishing for their livelihood.
“This wasn’t just oversight — it was intentional. Our subsidy files were not processed, and now the funds are gone,” one of the fisher representatives said. The group expressed frustration over the lack of transparency and accountability in the handling of subsidy applications.
Fishing remains a vital economic activity for the ST population in coastal Goa, and subsidies play a crucial role in supporting the sector, particularly in upgrading equipment and ensuring seasonal income stability.
Community leaders are now demanding an independent probe into the matter, the immediate release of pending subsidies, and a written explanation from the Chief Minister’s Office. The issue has started to gain traction among local activists and opposition leaders, with warnings of organized protests if the concerns are not urgently addressed.
As the situation develops, the state government faces mounting pressure to clarify its role and take corrective measures to ensure that such alleged neglect is not repeated in future disbursements.