The word ‘development’ has become a curse word for Goa. The reason being that it only translates into ‘land grabbing’ by those in power, namely the politicians.
Unfortunately, every political party or candidate speaks of it in their manifesto not knowing what kind of progress the people want or not. So beware, if your candidate speaks of working to bring about development for you, please read between the lines.
Is it development which includes ploughing through your backyard for some unnecessary railway track? Cutting hills for building hotels and housing complexes?
Development when combined with progress for the good of its people with the consent of the people is welcome, but when it is bulldozed on you with an ulterior motive and no compromises, it needs to be stopped right on its track.
And what better way to do it then nipping it right in the bud when you cast your vote.
Our tiny Goa does not have much land to spare. Besides, its God-given natural beauty does not permit us to have monstrous structures popping up all over the place.
Some would say that the population is increasing so we need buildings and bridges and railways. But is the Goan population increasing? In fact, it is just the opposite, our Goans are fleeing the land because Goa is no longer for Goans and of course there is no employment to fall back on.
This Valentine’s Day, vote with a conscience and let your heart beat for Goa.
