PANAJI
Amid demands from the Opposition to reconvene the Goa Legislative Assembly and complete the unfinished Budget session business, Governor Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju has asked the State government to take necessary action in accordance with rules and regulations.
Responding to a representation submitted by Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao and Goa Forward Party (GFP) chief Vijai Sardesai, the Governor’s office stated that the matter has been forwarded to the State government for appropriate action as per applicable procedures.
“Matter has been forwarded to the State Government for necessary action in accordance with applicable rules and regulations,” the Governor’s office said in their communication.
The demand to reconvene the Assembly gained momentum following the cancellation of the Ponda by-election, which had earlier led to the abrupt halt of the Budget session due to the imposition of the Model Code of Conduct. The Assembly had passed the State Budget 2026-27 without completing the discussion on 72 Demands amounting to over Rs 23,000 crore.
In his letter, Alemao had noted that with the High Court striking down the Ponda by-poll and the Election Commission rescinding the election process, there is no longer any obstacle to legislative proceedings. “Now, the by-elections to the Ponda constituency stand cancelled consequent on the judgement of the High Court. As a result, there should be no hindrance as projected earlier for the State assembly to function and transact the unfinished business before the House" he had written.
He had said that the real reason for the sudden and abrupt closure of the apex democratic institution remains a mystery.
Alemao emphasised that crucial Bills related to Goa’s land, environment, demography, and identity must be taken up without further delay.
Sardesai too had urged immediate intervention, stressing that the unfinished business of the House must be taken up in the interest of the State. He expressed concern over recent developments, stating they have shaken public confidence in democratic institutions and eroded trust in governance.
Sardesai had also flagged issues related to the functioning of the Assembly, including a reduction in the number of sitting days and procedural changes concerning starred questions and private members’ resolutions. He said these changes have curtailed the Opposition’s ability to raise key public issues.
Highlighting pending legislation, he referred to ‘The Goa Protection of Agricultural Lands Act, 2026,’ drafted by Ferdino Rebello, stating that the bill was sidelined due to disruptions. “It is imperative that such legislative initiatives are not ignored. This bill must be discussed and passed on priority,” he said.
