MARGAO
The Global Romi Lipi Abhiyan (GRLA) has urged Congress party election manifesto chairperson MP Viriato Fernandes on Wednesday to include in the Congress party manifesto the Abhiyan’s twin demands of equal status for Romi Konkani in the Official Language Act and the introduction of Romi Konkani into the schools of Goa in accordance with the guidelines of the New Education Policy as an option for study.
The MP has assured the delegation that the Congress party would study how to take the issue forward and how the Congress can play a part in saving the script.
A GRLA delegation comprising president Kennedy Afonso, secretary Michael Gracias and vice president Joaquim Faleiro called on the MP and handed over a memorandum requesting the inclusion of the twin demands in the Congress party manifesto.
GRLA Secretary Michael Gracias said during the meeting, Capt. Viriato discussed the issue at length with the delegation and heard the various aspects and concerns relating to the recognition and promotion of Romi Konknni. He assured the delegation that he would do the needful after discussing the matter with the Congress Manifesto Committee.
Treasurer Ansh Bandekar said that GRLA has welcomed the positive response and expressed hope that the Congress Party will give serious consideration to these long-standing demands and incorporate them in its forthcoming election manifesto, thereby ensuring equal respect and opportunity for Konkani in its different scripts.
