PANAJI: Goa Legislative Assembly Speaker Ganesh Gaonkar confirmed that Chief Minister Pramod Sawant will present the State Budget for 2026-27 on March 6. The session will also take up 15 Private Members’ Resolutions.
Speaking to reporters after the Business Advisory Committee meeting at the Assembly Complex in Porvorim today, Gaonkar said the general discussion on the Budget will take place on March 9–10. "We have ensured sufficient time for discussion on all demands for grants and questions raised by MLAs during this session. So far, 560 starred and 1,332 unstarred questions have been received,” he said.
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao urged the Speaker to include the “Goa Protection of Agricultural Lands Act, 2026” Bill in the agenda. Alemao said the agricultural lands bill aims to safeguard lands under cultivation or reserved for agriculture. “I hope the Bill is introduced, considered, and passed unanimously. Even ruling party members, if they wish to protect our agricultural land and heritage, should support it,” he said.
Alemao also called for a debate on the inhumane treatment of St Andre MLA Viresh Borkar, who was allegedly dragged by police officials during the recent protest at the TCP department. He condemned police conduct, adding, “Today the police are acting like street gundas. Such a mentality is dangerous for society. MLA Borkar was dragged inhumanely, and there should be stern action against those responsible.”
Alemao also highlighted concerns over Assembly decorum. He recalled that during the last session, TCP Minister Vishwajit Rane made an offensive hand gesture while addressing the Speaker. Despite writing to Speaker Ganesh Gaonkar on January 26, demanding disciplinary action, Alemao said no response has been received.
He urged the Speaker to allow sufficient time for opposition MLAs to raise questions and discuss pressing state issues, emphasizing that the Assembly is the proper platform to voice public concerns and resolve problems.
