Goa Revolution Day, also known as Kranti Din, is observed every year on June 18. It marks the beginning of Goa’s fight for freedom from the colonial and dictatorial Portuguese rule in June 1946. Every year, the State pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of our freedom fighters through cultural programmes and ceremonies. The movement was led by Indian socialist leader Ram Manohar Lohia and Goan freedom fighter Dr Juliao Menezes. It eventually led to Goa’s liberation. But today, we must ask ourselves: is this the Goa we had dreamt of?
Today, Goa’s land is being sold to the highest bidders—often outsiders with black money or unaccounted wealth. Hills, fields, water bodies, sand dunes, and mangroves are being destroyed, with the support of some ministers, bureaucrats, and panchayat members. Pollution of land, air, and water is rising, and our natural resources are being depleted.
Worse, many Goans are now migrating abroad, especially to Portugal—the same country we fought to free ourselves from—because it offers better opportunities than our own leaders. So, I wonder whether we should celebrate or mourn Goa Revolution Day. What I am certain of is this: we now need another Revolution Day—not against colonial rulers, but against corrupt, power-hungry politicians who are selling Goa for their own greed, while pretending to be nationalists.
