the goan I network
OLD GOA
Various activists condemned some ministers for targeting those who are standing up against their destructive plans, either by way of attacks or by filing false cases against them.
The condemnation was made at a media conference organised by Goa Helping Hands at the residence of former MLA Victoria Fernandes on Friday.
Speaking against the undemocratic manner in which the government is running, Ana Gracias questioned why people were being targeted for exposing illegalities in the State.
“When we highlight illegalities, we should be rewarded not harassed with false cases and beatings,” said Gracias, while decrying the action of Agassaim police in registering a false case of molestation against activist Rama Kankonkar who has exposed an illegal project of floating cottages in Mandur.
On questions being raised of NGOs funding, Gracias said it is their hard-earned money which they are spending.
“Anybody can check our accounts,” she stated, while adding that the fight against IT Park in Chimbel was not funded by Rudolf, as was being alleged.
Arturo D’Souza condemned the police who, he said, register FIR against activists in real hurry but don’t bother to register FIR when activists are assaulted.
“Last year when we were assaulted by a sarpanch at Kadamba plateau, the police refused to file our FIR. On the contrary, FIR was filed against us by the police that we created ruckus at the Old Goa police station and now we have got summons to appear in the court,” D’Souza stated while highlighting how the police too are shabbily treating the activists.
Avertino Miranda of Goa Green Brigade decried the devastation of hills, forests and low lying areas by money hungry politicians who will go to any length to suppress the activists who expose them.
“But we won’t be cowed down by such politicians and all activists will continue to fight against the illegalities,” Miranda said.
He added that activists, against whom false cases have been filed, will be provided legal assistance to defend themselves.
Former MLA Victoria Fernandes, Wilbur Ticlo and others spoke on the occasion.
Nothing to hide about my properties in Chimbel: Rudolf
OLD GOA: Claiming he has nothing to hide as far as his properties in Chimbel are concerned, Rudolf Fernandes said he has kept all documents ready with him so that the same could be provided to the SIT team, as and when required.
“Any government officer is welcome to inspect the file of my properties,” he said.
“I have also not encroached into any government land, as is being alleged,” said Fernandes, while demanding that the SIT team should also investigate those persons who are leveling allegations against him.
“These people themselves are involved in grabbing government land,” he alleged.
On his support to the agitation against IT Park, Fernandes stated the villagers themselves had sought his support.
“Mummy (Former MLA Victoria Fernandes) and I have always supported the people, as and when required, and will continue to do so, come what may,” he added.
