If assembly not reconvened in 15 days...
Justice Ferdino Rebello addressing a public meeting of the ‘Enough is Enough’ movement at the Sanguem bus stand on Saturday.
SANGUEM
Former chief justice of the Allahabad High Court Ferdino Rebello on Saturday warned of a statewide ‘Chalo Panaji’ agitation if the Legislative Assembly abruptly curtailed for the Ponda constituency by-poll, now declared null and void by the high court, is not reconvened within 15 days.
Justice Rebello was addressing a public meeting of the ‘Enough is Enough’ movement at the Sanguem bus stand.
Rebello stated that the abrupt curtailment of an Assembly session for a by-election is unprecedented in the country and alleged that it was done out of fear that the opposition would raise people’s issues in the House.
He termed this a dangerous precedent and said that while a 10-point movement has been initiated to safeguard Goa’s future, it is ironic that lawmakers themselves are unwilling to convene the Assembly, casting doubts over the State’s future.
Highlighting environmental concerns, he stressed the need for strong legislation to preserve hills, rivers, springs, agriculture and plantations for future generations. He also urged voters not to elect into the Assembly those who “sell Goa”.
Rebello asserted that governments fear when people unite, adding that every citizen has legal rights which cannot be taken away. If required, the strength of the people must be demonstrated, he said, expressing confidence that citizens across Goa will unite when called upon.
Sanguem Councillor Meshu D’Costa said the closure of the Sanjeevani Sugar factory has deprived farmers of their primary source of livelihood and noted the lack of alternative employment in Sanguem.
Rakhi Prabhudesai pointed out that diversion of water from the Savari waterfall by the forest department has led to shortages for farmers in the village.
Manoj Paryekar raised issues concerning Selaulim dam-affected people, stating that problems envisaged by the evacuees remain unresolved due to the failure to hold rehabilitation committee meetings for several years.
Asif Hussain warned that increasing substance abuse among youth is pushing the future into darkness and stressed the need for movements like “Enough is Enough” to save Goa and its youth.
Santosh Gaonkar and Santan Rodrigues also expressed their views. The programme began with musical performances by local artistes. Sandesh Prabhudesai read out the 10-point agenda of the movement, while Tony Cardozo compered the event.
