MAPUSA
A fresh language controversy surfaced in the Goa Legislative Assembly on Thursday after Mandrem MLA Jit Arolkar demanded that Marathi be granted the status of Rajbhasha and be officially recognised as the second official language of the State, citing its deep-rooted religious and cultural relevance in Goan society.
Raising the issue during Zero Hour, Arolkar said, “Marathi holds immense historical, religious, and cultural significance in Goa. It deserves to be given its due recognition alongside Konkani.”
Arolkar’s demand received immediate backing from PWD Minister Sudin Dhavalikar, who has in the past voiced support for giving Marathi a prominent place in Goa’s linguistic framework.
However, the Opposition benches strongly objected to the manner in which the demand was raised, arguing that making such a mention during Zero Hour was procedurally flawed.
“You cannot bring this resolution in Zero Hour. Such a proposal must come through a formal amendment and cannot be raised casually,” said Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai, pointing out that the Goa Official Language Act already clearly defines Konkani as the sole official language of the State.
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao also opposed the move, reinforcing that Zero Hour cannot be used to introduce resolutions or suggest legislative changes.
Despite the objections, Arolkar went ahead with his statement, formally placing his demand on record and urging the House to consider recognising Marathi as a co-official language.
