India celebrates Republic Day as the moment it cast off the last vestiges of colonial rule and asserted its sovereignty. Yet an important question remains: are we truly capable of safeguarding that sovereignty today?
Across the country, divisions weaken our collective strength. In Goa too, our sovereignty is under threat”not merely in political terms, but in the erosion of our environment, communities, customs, traditions, and unique identity as Goans.
Peace-loving and susegado by nature, Goans value harmony and hospitality. However, complacency comes at a cost. There are moments when silence becomes surrender. We must awaken and take a firm, non-violent stand to protect our land and our right to self-determination.
Outsiders are welcome as guests, but no one has the right to overstay their welcome, exploit our resources, or push Goans to the margins of their own home.
After Liberation in 1961, brave men and women sacrificed greatly to preserve Goa’s identity. Shall we allow their efforts to be in vain? If we remain indifferent, we risk losing not just our land, but our very sense of belonging.
