SATURDAY, 29 AUGUST 2026
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Call special gram sabha for controversial projects

With regards to the protest this week at Colva regarding the controversial villa/pools project in CRZ/Fishermen area at 3rd Ward Colva, many Colva panchas excused that they had to have it proceed as TCP gave technical approvals (which is not true as the TCP clearly entrusts the Panchayat to check other  important things before giving the permissions) and they could not do anything to stop it; again not true as I recall in the earlier (2025) ordinary gram sabha, a prominent Colvenkar submitted a proposal to discuss this controversial 3rd Fishing Ward Villa/Pool project as well as some other similar questionable projects, but the Colva panchayat strangely rejected the point to be discussed saying it was "not a development point".  Had this critical point been discussed at the earlier Gram Sabha, we would not have come to this crisis witnessed on February 10. Going forward, I ask that the Colva panchas organize a special gram sabha for any controversial projects; and not take their own independent decisions. The Colva panchayat must remember that at the last ordinary gram sabha a resolution was passed against multi-unit commercial housing projects.




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Can local concerns override country’s defence needs?

Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Published Feb 15, 2026, 12:45 AM IST
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The recent statement by South Goa MP Capt Viriato Fernandes regarding the possible takeover of Dabolim Airport by the Indian Navy has once again brought into focus the delicate balance between national security and regional necessity. While the Goa government has reiterated that civil aviation operations at Dabolim will continue, concerns among Goans remain palpable. Dabolim Airport is not merely an airstrip. It is the lifeline of Goa. Although the commissioning of the…

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