the goan I network
MAPUSA
A defensive Calangute MLA and Deputy Speaker Michael Lobo on Monday said the Banjara community has already got the SC/ST status in some States and there was no question of offering them the same status again.
“They are already Scheduled Caste people. Can we remove them from SC and give them ST? Government of India has already given them the (SC) status. Question of that (ST status) does not arise,” Lobo, who was initially hesitant to speak on the issue, told The Goan.
The deputy speaker has been under fire from a cross-section of the people in his constituency and the State after a video where he offers ST status to the Banjara community went viral on Saturday.
Caught on the wrong foot, Lobo said that he treated everyone equally and tried to help all those who approach him in whatever way possible.
“I do not treat anybody differently. Whoever comes to me, if I can help them, I do it,” a mellowed Calangute MLA said.
He said his political opponents, however, managed to capitalize on the video which was circulated on various social media platforms.
“People who have done this dirty job (of circulating the video) have got the mileage and must be very happy,”
he said.
“I know what work I am doing for the people and that is enough. People who are doing work are being put into controversy. That is the job of the opposition,” he added.
He said many Goans use the services of the Banjara community to do various odd jobs across the State.
“Goans employ them to clean houses and tend the gardens or to collect coconuts…These are the same people who are employing them and the same people are targeting them,” Lobo said.
In the video, the Calangute MLA while addressing a meeting is heard saying that children of the Banjara community born in the State are called Goans to a loud applause from the gathering.
He also commended the work of the Banjara community in the State and their contribution towards the Goan economy. Incidentally, Revenue Minister, Rohan Khaunte was also present at the meeting.
