PERNEM
Representatives from political parties along with local fishermen have demanded that traditional homes of the local fishing community in Temwada-Morjim must be saved, failing which locals will be forced to take to the streets and launch an agitation.
Congress leader Babi Bagkar, Goa Forward leader Deepak Kalangutkar, former Zilla Panchayat member Satish Shetgaonkar, social activist Mayur Shetgaonkar, and local fishermen were present at a meeting in Temwada to discuss the ongoing demolition of structures.
During the meeting, local fishermen expressed their concerns, stating that an atmosphere of fear has gripped the area due to the looming threat of demolition hanging over the homes of locals who have resided there for decades.
Local fishermen claimed that their families’ livelihoods depend entirely on the fishing trade. They stated that if their homes were demolished, many families would be rendered homeless and face a severe crisis regarding their livelihood.
Therefore, a demand was made that the administration should hold discussions with the locals and find an appropriate solution before taking any harsh action.
Speakers criticised the administration, alleging that while action is being taken against the traditional homes of locals, large projects constructed elsewhere are being overlooked. They demanded that uniform criteria be applied to everyone when enforcing the law.
Leaders present at the meeting urged the government to ensure justice for the traditional fishermen of Temwada, Morjim, and to protect their traditional homes, failing which an agitation would be launched in the matter.
