the goan I network
PONDA
In an unprecedented agitation of its kind, about 600-odd mining dependents from Goa have reached the national capital to take part in a three-day dharna from Tuesday morning, to demand the resumption of mining activity in the State.
Speaking to The Goan from New Delhi, Goa Mining People’s Front (GMPF) Convener Puti Gaonkar said some more mining dependents would reach New Delhi by Monday night, while some others would arrive on Tuesday.
“We have registered the names of around 600 members. More are yet to reach Delhi. About 1,000 mining dependents are expected to take part in this protest,” said Gaonkar.
He informed that the GMPF registered the names of members to participate in the dharna by visiting their hotels, as they could not get permission to assemble at Ram-Leela Maidan.
“A programme was taking place at Ramleela Maidan and so, we could not gather there. But we have got permission for Tuesday and Wednesday. On Thursday, we will stage our protest at Jantar Mantar,” said Gaonkar.
Asked if they had received the support of MLAs and MPs from Goa, Gaonkar replied: “We have invited all political parties to support us. I have come to know that many Goan politicians are in Delhi and some are expected to reach tonight, but only Power Minister Nilesh Cabral has confirmed that he would join us on Tuesday morning.”
“Our protest will begin at 10 am and will continue till 5 pm. We have managed to stay in hotels and any place where we could get the accommodation.”
GMPF had earlier threatened to take law into its hands
