the goan I network
VASCO
A livid Cortalim MLA Alina Saldanha on Wednesday said the Navy must not take Goa for granted, adding Goans very well know how to fight for their rights.
“Seeking Navy’s clearance for all development within a 20-km radius of Dabolim airport is one of the most ridiculous requests. The Navy must remember that the Dabolim airport was once a civilian airport. It was allowed to have an enclave there,” Saldanha told reporters.
“Over time, the Navy took possession of Dabolim airport and now it wants to take charge of the 20-kilometre radius. How can the Navy even think the Goa government will allow this to happen?” asked a fuming Saldanha.
“Goans will be prisoners in their own land and for every little need we may have to run to the Navy. This NOC form the Navy will make us slaves in our own land. I am very sure the State government will take the right step. Such notification cannot be allowed in a small state like Goa.” “Recently, when the Navy had asked for land for housing in Maharashtra, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari had refused to give even an inch. Now I appeal to the State government not to allow the Navy’s proposal.”
“We have been kind enough to give the Navy an enclave in our civilian airport, but it seems like you give them an inch and they want a yard.”
“No authority, especially the armed forces, should take Goa and Goans for granted and we know how to fight for our rights. Besides, I am sure even Prime Minister Narendra Modi will see sense in the State government’s appeal and not allow this to happen,” Saldanha added.
