With many Niz Goenkars migrating abroad, renouncing their Indian passports and rights in Goa, outsiders from other states have entered our land under the guise of development and employment. Gradually, they are settling here permanently, acquiring lands and building houses—actions tacitly supported by the present government through various schemes aimed at strengthening their vote bank. Now, these outsiders are aggressively seeking positions in village Panchayats, municipal councils, and even the Assembly, aiming to govern our own state. Many harbour resentment against Goans and have the audacity to propose changing the names of our villages and towns, threatening our cultural identity. We have already witnessed the rise of religious politics fueled by these so-called “Goenkars,” who are, in reality, duplicate Goans. They show little respect for protecting our rights, culture, heritage, environment, and land. Worse, they remain silent during crucial gram sabha meetings where villagers fight to safeguard their identity. If this dangerous trend persists, Goa’s unique identity and spirit will be lost forever. It is imperative that we prioritize the rights of true Goans and resist the takeover by outsiders.
RONNIE DSOUZA, Chandor
