PANAJI
The cancellation of the Ponda by-election has reignited demands for the Goa Legislative Assembly to reconvene and take up pending business left unfinished in March.
Former Justice Ferdino Rebello, who is spearheading the 'Enough is Enough' movement has urged the government to immediately call a session.
He said the abrupt curtailment of the House earlier this year, justified on grounds of the Ponda bypoll and the Model Code of Conduct, no longer holds water.
Warning of public backlash, Rebello said that if the government fails to act, people across Goa could come together to launch a strong agitation against the administration.
Leader of the Opposition Yuri Alemao has echoed the demand. In a letter to the Governor, Alemao pressed for the recall of the cancelled session.
He also urged the Speaker to facilitate the process and the Chief Minister to pave the way for it.
Alemao described the earlier justification for curtailment as “hollow,” pointing out that other State assemblies continued functioning despite elections and added that the real reason for the abrupt closure remains unclear.
With the High Court striking down the Ponda by-poll and the Election Commission rescinding the entire election process, Alemao argued there is no longer any hindrance to legislative work.
He insisted that crucial Bills safeguarding Goa’s land, environment, demography, and identity must be discussed without delay.
“Goa cannot afford legislative paralysis at a time when its land and future are at stake,” he wrote.
Goa Forward Party chief and Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai has also written to the Governor, pressing for immediate intervention. Sardesai said the unfinished business of the House must be taken up to protect Goa’s interests.
In his letter, Sardesai expressed serious concern over recent developments in the state, stating that they have shaken public confidence in democratic institutions and processes.
He added that the cumulative effect of such events has significantly eroded public trust.
Highlighting issues within the functioning of the Assembly, Sardesai pointed to a reduction in the number of sitting days and procedural changes related to starred questions and private members’ resolutions, which he said limit the Opposition’s ability to raise critical public issues.
He also emphasised the importance of ‘The Goa Protection of Agricultural Lands Act, 2026,’ drafted by Ferdino Rebello, stating that the bill was sidelined due to procedural disruptions. “It is imperative that such legislative initiatives are not sidelined. This bill must be discussed and passed on priority,” he said.
The chorus of voices will put pressure on the government but whether the Governor and Speaker will act on these appeals remains to be seen.
