Our Chief Minister Pramod Sawant needs to be commended for promptly raising with the Central government the long-standing issue of dual citizenship, highlighting the grievances and hardships being faced by those opting for Portuguese passports and while applying for OCI besides the dilemma faced by those Goans whose birth stands registered in Portugal. It would be also appropriate for the Goa government to ensure that the powers of the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) Goa are restored. The FRRO plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of people visiting India and provides a central point of contact for registering foreigners and other services. Goa being an important tourist destination the FRRO in Goa must be able to carry out all the necessary functions. Currently everything is being managed by FFRO Mumbai with even those applying for OCI having to travel personally to Mumbai for the appointment. Let us hope that the Goa Government will act diligently and swiftly so that our FRRO becomes empowered and fully operational to enable Goans to get their work done without unnecessary inconvenience, delay and expense.
