I have doubts about whether the Birch fire in Arpora, in which 25 people lost their lives, will actually lead to action against other major illegalities along the coast. My concerns are based on two points. First, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant often makes strong statements, but the follow-up is not always visible.
Second, the amount of hafta money reportedly paid to ministers, MLAs, government officials and panchayat members is said to be very high, making it unclear whether this system will end easily.
I recently watched a BJP Goa spokesperson on a national TV channel deny that hafta culture exists in the State. As a resident of Colva, I can say that such practices do take place in the village and possibly in other parts of South Goa too. The money is said to be collected by some local police personnel and a few panchayat members.
