the goan I network
VASCO
Stating that Goa has always been known for its peace and brotherhood, Panchayats Minister Mauvin Godinho on Sunday appealed to people not to fall prey to forces against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) who were trying to misguide people on communal grounds.
Godinho also clarified that CAA would not affect those of Indian origin who have obtained Portuguese passports and are working abroad.
Godinho was addressing a gathering as chief guest after unfurling the tri-colour during the Republic Day celebration at Tilak Maidan in Vasco.
“CAA will not affect any Indian citizen and we are trying to help people residing Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh, who are stateless especially those who are minorities there and have been prosecuted for years.”
“Now rumours are being floated that CAA will affect Portuguese passport holders of Indian origin. People are being misguided by some vested interests,” said Godinho.
Appealing to opposition political parties to play a constructive role, Godinho said: “Opposition should be constructive and give good advice to people and not create a divide between people by creating fake issues.”
“If the opposition wants to come in power, they should first treat people in the right manner. We don’t have any problem if opposition comes to power by winning the minds and hearts of people in a democratic manner, but they should not misguide them on communal grounds,” said Godinho.
Godinho also praised former chief minister and ex-defence minister Manohar Parrikar on being bestowed the Padma Bhushan Award posthumously on Republic Day.
“Parrikar was played a key role in the 2016 surgical strike. He will be remembered by Goans and Indians for his surgical strikes on militant camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and the implementation of the OROP scheme,” said Godinho.
