In Maharashtra, the tone and dialect of Marathi-speaking people vary greatly depending on their district and region within this large state. Maharashtra’s people often emphasize protecting their own jobs and encourage others to speak Marathi within their state. However, it is ironic that despite having their distinct identity, some individuals want to interfere in Goa’s affairs—a state with its own unique culture, identity, and the Konkani language as its mother tongue. The political agenda behind this interference becomes more apparent as elections approach. Politicians like Sudin Dhavalikar and Subhash Velingkar are being put at the forefront to create tension in Goa. The Maharashtra state government and its people should not demand Marathi be made an official language in Goa, where Konkani is the heart and soul of the state. Goa is home to people from all states who speak their native languages, and that diversity is welcome. But we cannot keep allowing demands for second or third official languages when Konkani is already our state language, and Goans are immensely proud of it. We urge Maharashtra and others to respect Goa’s sovereignty and mother tongue.
RONNIE DSOUZA, Chandor
