Zero opposition
Results of the recently-concluded CCP polls have dealt another lethal blow to the Congress party. Besides playing spoilsport as was its avowed intention, it is a shame that the Congress -backed panel was not able to win even a single seat. Probably the time has come to take stock of the party’s all round dismal performance ever since it was decimated at the National elections of 2014. After all, wasn’t it Mahatma Gandhi’s wish to dissolve the party after the country gained independence, as he foresaw it turning into a corrupt and political party instead of a nationalistic party? On the other hand, the prospects of the BJP seem to be brightening and it appears the party is all set to clinch a majority in the 2017 Assembly elections, as there is no viable alternative or any regional party capable of mustering the numbers to form the next Goa govt. As of today, it is undoubtedly a one-horse race for the BJP, even in the face of mounting opposition and dissatisfaction of the party’s poor performance and unfulfilled promises during the past 4 years of governance.
A F Nazareth
Safe haven for Goons?
Last several days, the village of Navelim has been in the news. It is noted that nefarious activities have been increasing in this village in recent times. On November 18, 2015, in Nagmodem ward of Navelim village, some goons had physically abused and molested two women on the road in a broad daylight. Later both the goons were arrested. Then there were clashes between two rival groups regarding the annual Navelim village fair, and the law enforcing agencies were called in to calm down the situation. On March 8, Anti-corruption Bureau nabbed two persons who impersonated Vigilance Department officials and demanded a bribe from a person who has an open dance floor in Velim. One of the arrested persons is a resident of Navelim village. Then on March 9, the Maharashtra excise department sleuths with the help of local police raided different locations and three persons were arrested for manufacturing and marketing of spurious liquor. Incidentally, one of the arrested persons is a resident of Navelim. It is a matter of concern that Navelim village is slowly become a safe haven for such goons. Villagers need to be vigilant and immediately inform the law enforcing agencies regarding any dubious persons with suspicious activities in their neighbourhood. Such activities must be nipped at the bud for the welfare of the village and society at large.
Rui Pereira, Navelim
Cameras on buses
The local buses of Goa are often places where women get groped. This has been happening for a long time now and no girl is safe. Now some women are getting vocal about it, but earlier when I was in college, we were scared and would keep quiet. Even now I hear about stories of groping in the buses. The Goa government should make CCTVs mandatory inside all buses, so that women can complain and there is evidence on camera. This will surely give women travelers some confidence to stand up and say something. Strict punishment should be given to these perverted men.
Insia Mendonca, Fatorda
