PANAJI
A joint delegation of Opposition leaders from the Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and Revolutionary Goans Party (RGP), including MLAs met Governor Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju at Lok Bhavan on Thursday, demanding an urgent special session of the Goa Legislative Assembly to repeal Section 39A of the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Act.
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao said the delegation urged the Governor to intervene, stressing that the issue is highly sensitive and could trigger law and order problems if not addressed immediately.
He pointed out that while the Assembly session is scheduled for March 6, the deteriorating health of RGP MLA Viresh Borkar, who is on a hunger strike at Azad Maidan, makes it imperative to debate Section 39A without delay.
Alemao said the Governor has the powers to summon a special session and must act in view of the growing public unrest. He also highlighted Borkar’s worsening condition, calling for urgent government response.
AAP MLA Venzy Viegas warned that Goans would not remain silent if attempts were made to stall development works in their constituencies or if cases were filed against individuals protesting against Section 39A.
He cautioned that people would take to the streets in large numbers if action was taken against the agitators.
The delegation also submitted a draft Bill prepared by Retired Chief Justice of Allahabad High Court, Ferdino Rebello, aimed at protecting Goa’s land by removing provisions related to land conversion.
The Opposition leaders said Justice Rebello’s proposed legislation is a significant step toward safeguarding the State’s land resources.
They expressed hope that the government would seriously consider the Bill and that it would receive unanimous support in the Assembly. The leaders reiterated that the repeal of Section 39A was essential to prevent unrest and to protect Goa’s identity and land.
Meanwhile, Borkar’s hunger strike entered its sixth day, adding urgency to the Opposition’s demand. The delegation warned that continued delay could escalate tensions across the State.
