On Monday, Manoj Parab, the President of Revolutionary Goans, made headlines with his striking proposal for an alliance with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to tackle the issue of illegal slum settlements in Chimbel.
His statements unveiled a deeper concern that resonates beyond Chimbel; it speaks to the pervasive issues of illegal housing and political complicity across Goa. Chimbel, along with other areas such as Moti-donor, Camrabhat, and Lala ki basti, has become emblematic of the challenges posed by illegal slum development. These neighbourhoods have drawn significant attention not merely for their existence but for the increasing visibility of anti-social elements purportedly taking refuge within them.
This situation raises serious questions about governance, accountability, and the welfare of local communities. Parab’s assertion that these slums are politically protected “vote banks” highlights a disturbing trend where politicians prioritize electoral gains over the rule of law and the safety of their constituents.
It raises the question of why such settlements, often fraught with illegalities, receive tacit approval or protection from those in power.
The interests of the citizens who wish to maintain the integrity of their neighbourhoods appear to be secondary to the conveniences that come with aligning with certain vote banks.
The need for a proactive approach to deal with illegal slums is urgent. Manoj Parab’s willingness to join forces with AAP, under the leadership of Goa President Amit Palekar, speaks to a potential unification of efforts that could result in meaningful change.
Palekar, a noted advocate, would bring legal expertise and a fresh perspective to the dialogue on urban development and migrant housing issues.
Together, they could lobby for robust policies aimed at not only demolishing illegal structures but also addressing the deeper socio-economic factors that drive migration.
Yet, while Parab calls for coalitions, it raises an important question: why isn’t he receiving support from other political parties?
The lack of backing could reflect an unwillingness to alienate voters who may sympathize with the plight of the migrants living in such slums.
Politicians’ hesitance to confront this issue directly highlights a broader dilemma in Goan politics — the balancing act between ethics and expediency in governance.
Support for Manoj Parab’s campaign is critical for creating a sustained movement toward the eradication of illegal settlements and restoring law and order.
Citizens across Goa are watching closely to see which political leaders will rise to the occasion and prioritize the rule of law over political expediency.
For true progress to be made, there must be a collective acknowledgement that illegal settlements can no longer be tolerated, both for the sake of local governance and community well-being.
Manoj Parab’s call to action regarding the slums in Chimbel is not just a local issue; it is a reflection of Goa’s broader societal challenges regarding urbanization and law enforcement.
The readiness of all political entities to address the root causes of illegalities seems imperative. It is time for political parties to engage genuinely in a dialogue that prioritizes the safety and rights of all Goans, ensuring that no one’s home becomes a hub for crime or exploitation.
Only through a transparent and united effort can the people of Goa hope for a more equitable and just living environment, free from the shadows of politicized neglect.
Sorry, there was a YouTube error.
