THE GOAN NETWORK
MARGAO: Goa Forward Party President and Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai has slammed the Goa government for failing to prevent the influx of imported Plaster of Paris (PoP) Ganesh idols, which have now washed ashore in Goa following Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.
Sardesai expressed his deep distress and concern after witnessing these disturbing images, which he believes have caused immense anguish among devout Goemkars.
"Just as I had warned, the so-called 'strict vigil' and 'stringent action' promised by the Chief Minister has proven to be nothing more than hot air," Sardesai said. "Many God-fearing Goemkars, like me, woke up to the deeply distressing sight of Lord Ganesh idols washing up ashore. This is a clear reflection of the government's gross negligence and inability to act in the interests of Goa”, he added.
Sardesai said he had raised the issue in August, when he wrote a letter to the Chief Minister, cautioning him about the possibility of PoP idols flooding the market during Ganesh Chaturthi, and urged for strong deterrence measures to be put in place. Despite the government's assurances, he noted that no concrete steps were taken to prevent this situation, he said.
"The Chief Minister has once again demonstrated that his words mean nothing, and his actions, as always, do more harm than good," Sardesai continued. "This isn't just about environmental damage—this is about disrespecting the religious beliefs and sentiments of thousands of Goemkars who celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi with devotion. Allowing imported PoP idols into Goa, despite repeated warnings, is an affront to our traditions and faith”, he added.
Emphasising on accountability, he urged the government to take immediate action to prevent further disrespect to Goa’s religious customs. He also reiterated his call for stricter border controls and a greater push for locally made clay idols, which are both environmentally friendly and in line with Goan traditions.
