MAPUSA
The forthcoming monsoon session of the Goa Legislative Assembly is poised to be a battleground for numerous pressing issues as Congress MLA Carlos Ferreira, along with the joint opposition, prepares to tackle several major concerns.
Among these are the National Education Policy (NEP), the precarious condition of government buildings, the rise in accidental deaths due to poor road conditions, and the ongoing coal issue.
Ferreira, representing Aldona, has been vocal about the need to address the de-silting of bundhs and their timely maintenance to aid farmers in cultivating their fields without hindrance.
"De-silting of bundhs and their timely maintenance is a very crucial issue which needs to be addressed so that our farmers can cultivate their fields without hindrance," Ferreira emphasised.
He also highlighted the importance of ensuring that farmers receive their subsidies.
"Payment of the subsidies to the farmers is another key issue which needs attention. If you don’t pay them the minimum crop price for nearly two years, then how will they be able to cultivate or buy seeds? I will take up these issues of our farmers in the House."
One of the most contentious issues Ferreira plans to address is the widespread land fraud that has severely impacted Goans, especially those who do not reside in the State.
Ferreira, a former advocate general, is determined to expose and combat the culprits involved in these fraudulent activities.
"It’s a major issue that has made Goans strangers in their own land. I will go for them on this issue. I will demand action against certain officers and who knows even some politicians. I have evidence and I will show how these frauds were done. There has to be connection and nexus for doing overnight mutations and overnight resurvey," Ferreira declared, signalling his readiness to take on entrenched interests.
Ferreira's approach in the Assembly is expected to be measured yet assertive.
"Not exactly," he responded when asked if he would be combative on the House floor. "I can be soft and still be able to put my point across. I may not shout or scream unless I really get worked up on a very sensitive issue," he admitted.
As the monsoon session approaches, Ferreira's leadership and the issues he champions are set to shape the legislative agenda.
The NEP, aimed at transforming the education system, has drawn mixed reactions and is expected to spark detailed discussions.
Additionally, the deteriorating state of government buildings and infrastructure, the alarming rise in accidental deaths attributed to poor road conditions, and the coal issue, which has environmental and public health ramifications, are all on the opposition's radar.
The monsoon session promises to be dynamic, with Ferreira and the joint opposition prepared to hold the government accountable and push for resolutions that address the needs and concerns of Goans.
