Team Herald
PORVORIM: The Goa government faced a barrage of questions from the Opposition benches over its intention to resolve the nearly two-decade-old legal battle with Karnataka on the Mhadei water diversion.
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From failing to expedite hearing of the Special Leave Petition before the Supreme Court to the disappointing performance of the State’s legal team, the House discussed the Calling Attention Motion regarding the water dispute at length.
Fatorda MLA Vjai Sardesai accused the government for not opposing the notification of Mhadei Water Disputes Tribunal’s award about distribution of Mhadei water among the three states – Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka.
The MLA, supported by Independent legislator Rohan Khaunte, pointed out to Water Resources Minister Filipe Nery Rodrigues’ reply to a starred question that legal counsel did not oppose the notification. “On basis he has not accounted for, the counsel did not oppose notification of the Award on his own accord,” read the written reply, in response to former minister Vinod Palyekar’s question.
Khaunte added to the discussion alleging prolonged delay in the hearing of the SLP. “When the mining petition can be taken up for hearing in the Supreme Court, then why can’t Mhadei? It is a question of Goa’s identity, ecology, flora and fauna,” he said, while demanding an answer from the government on how it will ensure expedite hearing of the case before the apex court.
Urging to protect Mhadei and its water that has already been illegally diverted by Karnataka, Khaunte further alleged that the Tribunal order continues to be violated even as it is debated in the House.
Congress’ Curtorim MLA Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco too joined his opposition colleagues accusing the government of failing on the Mhadei imbroglio. He charged the government of being responsible for the crisis today while also demanding to know steps it has taken from 2021-till date to protect Mhadei.
Navelim Congress MLA Luizinho Faleiro went on to add that Goa has faced disappointment from the Government of India, advocates and judiciary.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, defending his legal team, said an advocate who represented the State for many years has been replaced. He also emphasized that Goa has insisted to the Supreme Court to hold a physical hearing in order to present evidence against Karnataka.
