Thousands of Goans have given up their Indian passports to obtain Portuguese citizenship, mainly for visa-free travel, better career opportunities and a higher standard of living in the European Union. However, by giving up Indian citizenship, they also lose their right to vote in Goa. Many have sold their properties to outsiders and settled abroad permanently. Others return only for brief visits, staying for a couple of weeks before leaving again. They often come for family occasions, such as weddings or religious ceremonies, but their connection with Goa has weakened over the years. Many of their children, who moved abroad for a better future, rarely return, even for family funerals. Having built their lives overseas and married into other cultures, they have grown further away from their Goan roots.
At the same time, many old heritage houses are being sold to builders and real estate developers, slowly erasing Goa’s cultural and architectural identity. The absence of many local families has made it easier for outsiders to buy land and property that was once carefully preserved by generations of Goans. Calling for people to “Save and Protect Goa” from different parts of the world is not enough. Those who have given up their Indian citizenship cannot vote or help choose the representatives who shape Goa’s future. Saying “My Goa” or “Our Goa” has little meaning without active participation in preserving and developing the State.
Responsibility for the present situation does not rest with one group alone. Those who have left Goa, as well as those who continue to live here but do not do enough to protect its interests, all share some responsibility. Even some well-meaning social initiatives may have unintentionally contributed to the challenges Goa faces today. Protecting Goa requires more than songs, slogans or emotional appeals. It demands active involvement, responsible citizenship and a genuine commitment to safeguarding the state’s people, culture and heritage for future generations.
Ronnie D’Souza, Chandor
