In a grim scenario, where casualties and Covid-positive cases are swelling every passing day, the fear in the minds of citizens, in simple terms, should have been about the lurking virus. However, on Saturday last, villagers, social activists, NGOs and leaders of all hues moved out of their homes because, for them, the fear of environmental damage was far overwhelming. Over the weekend that went by, the government's double standards were high on display as it applied two yardsticks to two separate meetings where the fear predominately ran on similar lines.
In Mollem a meeting was held to discuss the proposed 400 kv power transmission project at Sangod. PWD Minister Deepak Pauskar and Power Minister Nilesh Cabral were addressing a section of locals who feared large scale devastation of trees to make way for the proposed power project. The locals were so steadfast in their opposition that even during these uncertain times, they were not enthused by job assurances, but instead preferred to embrace the environment. While ugly scenes erupted during the meeting, the strong pose of police ensured that both the ministers went about their task of engaging the locals.
Cut across to Majorda-Utorda where another meeting was scheduled on the same day where locals sought a meeting at the site with railway authorities and local MLA Wilfred D'Sa on another contentious route. There were apprehensions raised over double-tracking work being carried out in non-acquired properties, and demarcation was being sought. However, in this case, authorities swooped down at the venue forcing the crowd to disperse with the South Goa collector invoking the pandemic rules. Undeterred by the high-handedness meted out to them, villagers braved the drizzle and armed with umbrellas held a meeting in nearby Majorda fields along with their MLA, Curtorim MLA Aleixo Reginaldo, social activists and other leaders.
The questions that arise are: are pandemic rules only applicable to villagers and activists? Why were Cabral and Pauskar allowed to hold a meeting in Mollem? If the government thought it wise to consult people and allay their fears over environmental damage, why did the same yardstick not apply to the people of Majorda-Utorda? The primary reason for people to distrust the government is because it is trying to bulldoze decisions without taking locals on board. Sensitive issues like these need to be discussed and debated, and the people of Goa have to be partners in any progress of the State.
In Majorda, scuttling the meeting was unwarranted if the railways have worked within its parameters. There was no reason to shy away from the issue. Authorities, by their actions, have sent out a wrong signal and shown a confrontationist attitude towards people. It would have been prudent for all stakeholders to come together and clarify positions. The government cannot discard issues on the premise that activists drive them. It must be borne in mind that the opposition to double-tracking includes some of BJP's legislators including the Nuvem constituency MLA and Cortalim constituency MLA Alina Saldanha. Trying to suppress voices of dissent is only going to vitiate the atmosphere further.
