the goan I network
PANAJI
​Former Union Law Minister Ramakant Khalap and Curtorim Congress MLA Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco on Tuesday demanded that Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar should step down owing to the failure of his government to protect River Mhadei
Speaking at Congress House, Khalap stated, “Karnataka has dug a canal deeper than 10 mts at Kankumbi and not kept its word given before the court. Parrikar’s government was happy to put up the legal battle without the knowledge of ground reality. It is a crime against all Goans. We urge Parrikar to resign and make way for a more responsible set up.”
Congress expressed support to the fight waged by Mhadei Bachao Abhiyan. “Congress will support the MBA’s petition before SC and if need be, the party will file a fresh writ petition,” Khalap said. The senior Congressman sought to recall that the Mhadei water dispute tribunal was set up at the behest of the Congress party under CM Digambar Kamat.
He said that Parrikar should build enough pressure considering the fragile ecosystem of Goa. “If the fresh water flow stops, tidal waters will carry salinity further up towards the hills in Goa. Goans will have to face miseries of unimaginable proportions. This Assembly session is therefore crucial,” Khalap argued.
He further accused the ruling party of only focusing on politics. “At this juncture, Congress has only one alternative, to ensure that this weak government doesn’t return to power. Tunnel deeper than the one dug by Karnataka is visible within the coalition,” said Khalap.
Meanwhile, Reginaldo pointed out that the Water Resource Department had warned the government about the ongoing water diversion work by Karnataka. “But the BJP has not done anything for five years,” he said.
“His own MLA, Dr Pramod Sawant and Michael Lobo, have exposed his inactivity. He doesn’t deserve to be the CM of the state,” Reginaldo said reiterating the demand for Parrikar’s resignation.
