The decision by the Goa government to suspend land conversion proposals under Section 39A of the TCP Act in the village of Siridao-Palem marks a significant moment in the State’s political landscape. This has resulted in the young legislator Viresh Borkar and the youth Tushar Gawas withdrawing their hunger strike.
For years, there has been a lingering perception that Goan youth remain detached from grassroots movements, especially those concerning environmental and land issues. The peaceful protest by the youth of Siridao-Palem, ably supported by the women, has decisively shattered that notion.
Under the able leadership of Viresh Borkar, who happens to be the youngest member of the Goa Legislative Assembly, the youth mobilised not with aggression, but with clarity of purpose, discipline, and dignity. In an era where youth-led protests across India and the globe are often associated with confrontation, vandalism, and at times tragic loss of life, this youth-led protest in Goa, ably supported by women, comes as a refreshing change.
In Nepal, Gen Z-led uprisings have made headlines for their intensity and disruption. In contrast, the movement in Goa consciously adopted the Gandhian model of protest. There was not a single incident of violence reported, only a firm and peaceful assertion of democratic will.
The battle may have been won, but the larger war continues. As the Assembly session approaches, all eyes will be on whether the government translates its temporary concession into lasting reform. If not, the youth of Goa will be back protesting at Azad Maidan.
