Mining dependents to go on token hunger strike on October 5

the goan I network
PONDA
The Goa Mining People’s Front (GMPF) has withdrawn its decision to stage a bandh in the six talukas of Quepem, Bicholim, Dharbandora, Sanguem, Ponda and Sattari on October 3, but has, instead, decided on a token hunger strike at Azad Maidan, Panaji on October 5.  
Addressing a news conference in Ponda on Monday, GMPF Convenor Puti Gaonkar on Monday said: “We have cancelled the bandh, but are firm on staging the dharna in New Delhi.” 
“Besides, we will hold a one-day token hunger strike at Azad Maidan on October 5. Around 2,000 mining dependents are expected to join us,” Gaonkar said. 
Gaonkar said they had met all three MPs from Goa, who had assured them of help in resuming mining activity.  
“We also invite all elected representatives and presidents of political parties to come and support us during the token hunger strike,” he said. 
Puti Gaonkar said the parliament session is expected in October and hence, they had decided to stage a dharna at Jantar Mantar-Delhi to draw attention of the central government.  
“We will stage a three-day protest with the participation of 1,000 mining dependents at Jantar Mantar in Delhi during the first three days of the forthcoming parliament session,” he said. 
Unhappy over the delayed process to resume mining, GMPF had earlier demanded a monthly package of Rs 25,000 for mining dependents till the resumption of mining activity. 
Gaonkar also lamented that even though the recent state assembly had passed a resolution supporting necessary amendments, nothing had been done. They are demanding an amendment to Section 2 of Goa Daman and Diu Mining Concessions (Abolition and Declaration as Mining Leases) Act 1987 to help resumption of mining activity.