Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: Tensions flared at the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) on Thursday after AAP Goa President Valmiki Naik was removed by police from the CCP premises, where he had arrived with supporters to raise concerns over the continued operation of casinos in the Mandovi River.
The incident unfolded as a group of Panaji residents gathered at the CCP Conference Hall to voice their opposition to offshore casinos and seek clarity on the Corporation’s stand. The citizens had assembled to meet the Mayor and demand concrete action against casino activities in the river, which they claim are affecting the environment and the city’s identity.
Amid the protest, renowned Goan freedom fighter Libia Lobo Sardessai extended her support to the citizens opposing the casinos. “I am objecting to the casino. We want to eat fish, not the dirt of the casino,” she said, drawing applause from those present.
Sardessai had also come to attend what was believed to be a Council meeting at the CCP. However, no meeting was convened on the day, leading to confusion among citizens and activists who had gathered in anticipation of raising the issue formally before the Corporation.
Supporters alleged that they were denied an opportunity to place their concerns before the Mayor and councillors. The removal of Naik from the premises further intensified the situation, with AAP members terming it an attempt to suppress democratic dissent.
