I believe reporters should add relevant facts when politicians make misleading claims, particularly on issues involving ruling parties. Recently in Margao, an MLA claimed that the Opposition had sabotaged the Prime Minister’s Women’s Reservation Bill and that Goa would consequently have received 12 additional Assembly seats. The record deserves to be recalled. On September 20, 2023, the Women’s Reservation Bill providing 33% reservation was passed in the Lok Sabha with 454 votes in favour and two against, and subsequently in the Rajya Sabha with 214 members present. The legislation concerned reservation of 33% of existing seats; where, then, was the question of immediately increasing Goa’s seats by 12? In contrast, reporters sometimes provide extensive details about cases involving ordinary citizens, including women prisoners. Is this fair? Such reporting can also deeply affect their children and families. If Goa genuinely wants greater women’s representation, why not lead by example? Our legislators could share constituencies equally with nominated women representatives, including responsibilities and allowances. We already have 40 “Ali Babas”. Enough is enough. The public deserves facts, not political theatrics.
GREGORY E D'SOUZA, Siolim
