Following the Mhajo Flat Scheme and Mhaje Ghar Yojana, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant recently announced the Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana to provide flats or small houses to eligible Goans without residential property. While the intention appears noble, concerns are growing over how these schemes will be implemented. There is a fear that non-Goans, including long-term residents and those described as “duplicate Goans”, could benefit from schemes intended for native Goans or Niz Goenkars. This could dilute the benefits meant for genuine Goans and undermine their rightful claims.
There are also concerns that such schemes could be used politically to build a larger vote bank by accommodating outsiders at the cost of local interests. This could eventually lead to demographic changes and social tensions in the State. The government must therefore enforce strict eligibility criteria and ensure that genuine Goans are given priority. Housing schemes should strengthen and empower the indigenous community, rather than become tools for political gain.
Ronnie Dsouza, Chandor
