Team Goemkarponn
MARGAO: Tensions around Goa’s language issue have intensified, with Konkani advocacy groups firmly opposing any proposal to accord Marathi the status of an official language in the state.
At a gathering held in Margao, activists and representatives of several Konkani organisations made it clear that Konkani alone holds official language status under the state’s existing law and should not be altered. They emphasised that the language is a key pillar of Goa’s cultural identity and heritage.
During the meeting, speakers cautioned political parties against supporting demands for Marathi’s inclusion as an official language, warning that such a stance could lead to an electoral backlash from Konkani supporters. The groups collectively signalled that they would withdraw support from parties backing any such move.
Participants also highlighted that the current legal framework adequately recognises Konkani and does not require modification to accommodate Marathi. Instead, some voices suggested that efforts, if any, should focus on strengthening the use and recognition of Konkani, including its scripts.
Concerns were also raised about the potential for the issue to create divisions among communities. Speakers urged the public to remain united and vigilant against attempts to politicise the language debate.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation that Konkani’s official status, achieved after a historic struggle, must be preserved without dilution.
