the goan I network
PONDA
About 2,000 mining dependents from across the State are expected to take part in a token hunger strike at the Azad Maidan in Panaji on Friday.
The Goa Mining People’s Front (GMPF) convened a meeting at Codli on Thursday to discuss plans regarding the strike. GMPF Convener Puti Gaonkar chaired the meeting which was attended by leaders of mining dependents.
President of Dharbandora Taluka Truck Owners Association Vinayak alias Balaji Gawas, who was also present at the meeting, told The Goan that around 500-1,000 mining dependents from Ponda and Dharbandora taluka alone are expected to join in the strike.
“We discussed about Friday plans for the token hunger strike and decided to reach in Panaji by 10 am,” Gawas said.
Around 2,000-odd mining dependents from all over Goa are expected to participate in the hunger strike.
GMPF had earlier decided to stage a Bandh in the six talukas of Quepem, Bicholim, Dharbandora, Sanguem, Ponda and Sattari on October 3, but instead decided to go on a hunger strike.
They are demanding an amendment to Section 2 of Goa Daman and Diu Mining Concessions (Abolition and Declaration as Mining Leases) Act 1987 to help resume mining activity in the State.
Sources informed that GMPF members have met many elected representatives and have sought their support to their cause.
