PANAJI:
Raising alarm over recent political developments, Goa Forward Party Chief Vijai Sardesai has urged Governor Ashok Gajapathi Raju to immediately convene a session of the Legislative Assembly to take up and pass “The Goa Protection of Agricultural Lands Act, 2026.”
In his letter, Sardesai expressed serious concern over recent developments in the state, stating that they have shaken public confidence in democratic institutions and processes.
Referring to the abrupt cancellation of the Ponda by-election by the Bombay High Court, he said the decision came just a day before polling, leaving no meaningful opportunity to approach the Supreme Court of India. “The result was a complete suspension of the electoral process at the last moment. Even more concerning is the silence of the Election Commission of India on this unprecedented situation,” Sardesai stated.
He added that the cumulative effect of such events has significantly eroded public trust.
Sardesai also raised concerns over increasing road accidents in the state, stating that lives are being lost in preventable incidents. He further alleged that the government is planning to raise loans amounting to approximately ₹1,000 crore between April and June 2026 without adequate transparency or legislative scrutiny.
Highlighting issues within the functioning of the Assembly, Sardesai pointed to a reduction in the number of sitting days and procedural changes related to starred questions and private members’ resolutions, which he said limit the Opposition’s ability to raise critical public issues.
He also emphasised the importance of ‘The Goa Protection of Agricultural Lands Act, 2026,’ drafted by Ferdino Rebello, stating that the bill was sidelined due to procedural disruptions. “It is imperative that such legislative initiatives are not sidelined. This bill must be discussed and passed on priority,” he said.
