The 4-day Assembly session got off to an acrimonious start, with the Opposition demanding that Governor Sreedharan Pillai address the government's plan of action on Mhadei in his opening speech. The Opposition, sporting black attire, went on a premeditated offensive, shouting slogans when Governor began his speech and later walked out of the House. The Opposition action certainly was bad behaviour, given that the address had just started.
On the flip side, the government lost a golden opportunity to address the issue and the initiatives taken to defend Mhadei. Interestingly, on the eve of the meeting at Virdi-Sanquelim, Advocate General Devidas Pangam gave a comprehensive presentation clarifying key issues on Mhadei and Goa government's position. He pointed out that there is a misconception that the main Mhadei stream is being diverted when Karnataka seeks to divert water from the tributaries of Kalasa, Bhandura and Hartal.
The AG firmly stated that the law does not permit water diversion because it flows through Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary in Goa and Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka. The point that was being made was that the government would not allow any diversion, even if it were from the tributaries. To justify this, he said letters had been dashed to the Environment Ministry and other Central departments cautioning about the legal implications. In addition, there is an interlocutory petition in the Supreme Court asking for directions to Karnataka against proceeding with construction based on the CWC clearance.
The Governor's speech completely skipped the all-important Mhadei issue, and Pillai spelt out the government's success stories, from hosting the women's World Cup to holding panchayat elections, besides various other initiatives and programmes. Unfortunately, it appeared that the government chose to run away from accountability for Mhadei, thereby giving more ammo to those who were gearing up for the Virdi rally. The need of the hour was for the government to be sensitive to the burning issue and start explaining.
A governor's speech highlights the State policies and government's initiatives. Article 163 of the Constitution binds the Governor to take action on the aid and advice of the council of ministers. Speeches read out by Governors are prepared by the governments. However, there are several instances where governors have deviated from the government's narrative. In this case, Pillai could have advised the government on the issue.
Pillai has struck a chord with the Goan populace since he was sworn in on July 15, 2021. His numerous outreach programmes and aid to the needy are testimony to his deep engagement with the people of Goa. His visit to coastal Salcete in August last year amplifies how people see him as a mediator. Pillai had rekindled hope when there was an apparent trust deficit against the government of the day.
While the entire Goa watched Pillai on their TV sets and social media feed, there was a massive wave of expectation that His Excellency would feel the pulse of Goa and address an issue that Goans are considering their 'mother' and 'lifeline'. Instead, what followed was a huge letdown, disappointment and bitterness in some measure.
