PANAJI
Accusing Revolutionary Goans President Manoj Parab of trying to fool the people, Calangute MLA Michael Lobo has said Parab had gone to Anjuna on Monday not to solve the issue of illegal constructions but to argue on the POGO bill.
When a meeting had taken place during the Anjuna Bandh on Monday, Parab was involved in a heated exchange with Lobo, shedding light on contentious issues surrounding land rights and legislative matters in Goa.
Reflecting on the tense encounter while speaking to reporters in Panaji on Tuesday, Lobo voiced his concerns over the diversion of focus from pertinent issues plaguing the region.
“Elections are close, Tukaram (Manoj) Parab had come to Anjuna Bandh meeting not to solve the problem but instead started arguing on POGO bill. I did not want to argue with him on that so I kept quiet,” Lobo remarked, hinting at the diversionary tactics employed by some parties.
Lobo reiterated the inseparable bond between Goa and the rest of India.
“Goa is a part of India and Tukaram is trying to fool people, POGO bill is unconstitutional,” he asserted, underlining his commitment to upholding constitutional norms.
Turning his attention to the contentious issue of land ownership, Lobo challenged the narrative surrounding the sale of paddy fields to non-Goans.
“CM Sawant has already brought a bill that paddy fields can’t be sold to non-Goans. Why is he (Parab) quiet on that, isn’t that what he wanted?” Lobo queried, highlighting the need for clarity and accountability in governance.
Asserting the fundamental rights of individuals to own property, Lobo emphasised the need for a balanced approach towards land ownership.
“Any Goan can build his house anywhere in the country & similarly others can come to Goa and buy land. We are part of India. You can’t stop people from buying land in Goa,” he remarked, advocating for an inclusive approach to land rights.
