It was interesting to read the answers to some of the questions posed to the candidates in the rapid fire section of your newspaper. The questions in the first place, were indeed, very pertinent, considering the present situation in the state and in several other states as well. One of the candidates said, he would like to see a law which would save the environment in Goa if he comes to power. Yes, that is important in a state which has seen stiff opposition by the people to several projects which are harmful to the environment.
Another one says, the anti-defection law needs to be amended and, most of the candidates seemed to agree that a merger by 2/3rd was against the mandate of the people, although one of them frankly admitted he was once a beneficiary. Here is the crux of the issue. If elections have to become meaningful in our country, the anti-defection law must be amended. This will ensure that the people's mandate is respected. This 2/3rd merger is just not justified. As one of the candidates says, people's sentiments are taken for a ride and that is not acceptable to him. Will the politicians accept the will of the people after the ballot boxex have spoken on February 14?
