MARGAO: A significant number of Goans congregated at the historical Lohia Maidan, rallying under the banner of ‘Goencho Ekvott’, with a unified resolve to oppose destructive projects advocated by both central and state governments, which pose threats to Goa's heritage, environment, agricultural land, forests, rivers, and hills.
The event witnessed a clarion call to safeguard ‘Goy, Goenkar, and Goenkarponn’, drawing participants from across Goa, including senior citizens and religious leaders, who came together to voice their concerns.
Representatives from Sao Jose de Areal, Cansaulim, Curtorim, Navelim, as well as Canacona, Vasco, and North Goa, were present at the public meeting, highlighting their shared worries for Goa and its environment, and emphasising the need for unity among Goans to address these issues.
The gathering, organised in collaboration with various associations including Goyche Fuddle Pillge Khatir, Goenkar Ek Pavl Ekcharachem, Goenchea Ramponkarancho Ekvott, Ganv Bhanvancho Ekvott, Goencho Avaaz, and Shadow Council of Margao, saw the adoption of several resolutions.
Key concerns raised at the meeting included the people’s apprehensions regarding the denial of OCI and dual citizenship, perceived as tools that could undermine Goan identity for those who have accepted Portuguese citizenship in pursuit of better prospects for their children.
The attendees unanimously called for OCI status and dual citizenship for eligible Goans, along with advocating for the use of ballot voting instead of EVM machines during elections.
Furthermore, there was a collective resolution to uphold longstanding communal harmony and denounce efforts by certain entities, allegedly supported by influential political figures, to sow division and spread animosity among the populace.
Participants expressed frustration over the persistence of large-scale projects despite widespread objections from the community.