MAPUSA
In the wake of a demolition operation conducted by the authorities in Sangolda, a humanitarian crisis has unfolded as hundreds find themselves displaced and homeless.
The demolition, aimed at clearing illegal houses and structures on community land, has left around 150 people, including women and children, without shelter and basic amenities.
Three days after the demolition, the displaced residents continue to endure severe hardship as they struggle to find a place to rest and access necessities. With nowhere else to go, they have resorted to sleeping under the open skies amidst the rubble of their former homes.
The lack of proper sanitation facilities further compounds their difficulties, with the threat of disease looming large.
One distraught resident, who has called Sangolda home for over four decades, expressed his anguish, highlighting the abruptness of the demolition and the lack of time given to salvage belongings.
“We will not move from this place until we get proper rehabilitation. How can they do this to us? I was born and studied in Goa. For the last 45 years I have been staying in this place,” he lamented, pointing to the rubble that was once his home.
The plight of the displaced individuals is exacerbated by societal prejudices, as revealed by one member of the minority community who shared their struggle to find refuge due to discrimination based on their religious identity.
"When we say we are Muslims, no one is ready to offer even a room for us to stay. Is this humanity?" he questioned.
Open skies: New home
As night falls, makeshift arrangements become the norm, with men sleeping on bedding laid out amidst the debris while women and children seek shelter in the generosity of neighbours' galleries.
“We have been accommodated by our neighbours with whom we have had excellent relations. But how long can we stay at other people’s place,” said Reshma Talwar, whose house has been reduced to a rubble in the demolition drive.
Besides the summer heat, the people sleeping in the open battle another problem – the ubiquitous mosquitoes.
“The swarm of mosquitoes all around make life miserable for us in the night. There is also the fear of contracting malaria,” said an elderly man among the group.
Together for meals
Despite the challenges, a sense of unity and resilience prevails among the displaced, as they come together to cook meals on makeshift stoves.
While the women folk take the opportunity to prepare food for the entire community, the young, old and the kids then queue up for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
“So far, we have been managing with our meals each one landing a hand in the cooking. There are people who provide us with the ration like dal and rice. Local MLA Kedar Naik and Calangute MLA Michael Lobo also send us food,” said Saraswati Naik.
Glimmer of hope
The generosity of neighbours and community leaders provides a glimmer of hope amidst the adversity.
Those displaced said that their neighbours have been very cooperative and have gone out of their way to make their lives better in times of difficulty.
Good Samaritans have stepped forward to provide essential supplies, while local politicians have extended support by sending food supplies. However, the long-term solution remains elusive, with the displaced residents facing uncertainty about their future and their ability to rebuild their lives.
As the authorities grapple with the aftermath of the demolition, urgent action is needed to address the humanitarian needs of the affected individuals and provide them with the support and resources they require to rebuild their lives.
