Goa’s Advocate
Q: What would list as your premier successes as Advocate General?
Nadkarni: There were several successes. In fact I would consider every case that I have argued as important. There are several cases including that of the Goa Mandovi Bridge in NGT, the Goa Mining case in the SC, the recent NEET case as well as the Mhadei case and the NGT case about the Saligao garbage plant.
Q: The Saligao garbage plant case was unique (where the villagers and the govt agencies discussed and drew up a set of conditions) through which the matter was resolved. What led to this?
Nadkarni: We wanted to take them into confidence because they were residents of the area. It was we who approached the applicants and that’s how it came about.
Q: Can this template be replicated in other similar cases?
Nadkarni: Definitely. In many cases all the NGOs only mean something good. So if we take them on board several cases can be resolved in this manner.
Q: What about Mhadei. Will you continue to take it up?
Nadkarni: We have a very good case before the Tribunal. Whether I take it up depends on the Goa government. It is for the government to decide who will represent the State. The State hasn’t asked me yet whether to continue. Maybe they will over the next few days.
Q: Do you wish to continue to represent Goa in the case?
Nadkarni: There’s nothing like that. I expect that I will be very busy in Delhi and may not have any time to follow the case.
