VALPOI
The Sattari Dhangar community has resolved to intensify its movement for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, adopting “Now or Never” as its campaign slogan.
The sixth corner meeting organised by the Goa Dhangar Samaj Seva Sangh, Sattari, was held at the Shree Lairai Devi Dhond Mandap Hall in Malpan. It drew women, youth, senior citizens, social workers and community members from nearby areas.
Participants backed the demand for ST status and pledged to strengthen the constitutional movement to secure their long-pending rights. They decided to expand the legal and organisational campaign, increase village-level awareness programmes and strengthen the organisation at the grassroots.
Prominent leaders included Vithoba Kharat, secretary of the Gomantak Dhangar Samajonnati Mandal, and Dhulu Dhondo Shelke, president of the Goa Dhangar Samaj Seva Sangh, Sattari.
Kharat explained the status of the ST demand, government developments, the legal process and the future course of the movement. He urged the community to remain united and pursue the demand through peaceful and democratic means.
Shelke said ST status would create opportunities for Dhangar students in education, employment reservations, social protection, economic advancement and access to government schemes.
Bharat Pingale said the demand was also about the community’s identity, dignity and the future of coming generations. He stressed that unity and organised strength were essential.
Janu Zore urged members from Sanguem and Dharbandora to join the movement, while Babu Zore reiterated the commitment to constitutional and peaceful means.
Speakers warned against rumours and misinformation aimed at dividing the community and urged members to rely on official information.
The meeting decided to hold awareness campaigns, youth conventions, women’s programmes and organisational activities across Goa.
