A rally was held in Pernem on Sunday over environmental concerns.
PERNEM
The BJP-led Goa government has come under fire over alleged targeting of Pernem taluka in land conversion matters, with villagers of Harmal warning of a protest march to the Secretariat if the conversion at Bhatwadi is not cancelled.
Speaking at a public meeting held after a torch rally organised by the Paryavaran Bachav Samiti under the banner ‘Save Harmal, Save Goa’, Kishor Naik Gaonkar said the government was protecting some areas while allowing Pernem to be destroyed.
He announced that the villagers would take out a morcha during the upcoming Assembly session if their demand is ignored.
Naik Gaonkar criticised the authorities for permitting large events without providing basic facilities to the traditional ramponkar fishing community, which he said had only increased the difficulties of local residents.
He urged the people of Harmal to remain alert and appealed to women to take the lead through self-help groups and other community initiatives.
He also questioned the absence of sitting MLA Jit Arolkar, former MLA Dayanand Sopte, former chief minister Laxmikant Parsekar, and local panchayat representatives at the meeting, stating that leaders must be present to address public concerns when they seek people’s votes.
Newly elected zilla panchayat member Radhika Palekar attended the programme and assured the gathering that she would continue to support the villagers’ cause.
