Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: St Cruz MLA and Goa Human Resource Development Corporation Chairman Rodolfo L. Fernandes has rejected allegations made against him during a protest over the proposed UNITY Mall project at Chimbel, stating that he has always stood for the protection of Chimbel (Toyaar) Lake and remains open to dialogue.
In a press note issued on Monday, Fernandes said the protest held in front of his office was politically motivated and that the protestors had never approached him in a constructive manner to discuss their concerns.
Fernandes said that nearly six months ago, some of the same individuals had contacted him seeking an appointment with Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant, which he had arranged. However, he claimed that those individuals did not even attend the meeting at the Chief Minister’s Office where the issue was discussed.
He further stated that despite speaking on the issue in the Goa Legislative Assembly and clearly saying that he stood with the people, certain individuals later criticised him publicly at Azad Maidan, indicating an attempt to deliberately politicise the issue and isolate him.
The MLA also highlighted his past role in stopping the IT Park project near Chimbel Lake.
“The lake at Chimbel has always been of great importance to me. I had intervened during the IT Park issue after protests when illegal activities were taking place close to the lake, and my intervention ultimately led to the project being stopped,” Fernandes stated.
Fernandes reiterated that he would never allow any damage to the lake, adding that Chief Minister Pramod Sawant had already directed that the lake be declared a wetland, and continues to hold the same stand.
Addressing allegations of police deployment during the protest, Fernandes said that the presence of police was part of routine security protocol for elected representatives and was not initiated by him. He also denied claims that the doors of his house or office were closed to protestors.
He said that despite the tense atmosphere, he invited five representatives of the protestors for a civil discussion in his office, but claimed the protest was aimed at defaming him rather than engaging in dialogue.
Fernandes also alleged that two individuals who were rival candidates in the last elections were actively instigating the protest. He named Ajay and Advocate Palekar, claiming that Palekar had earlier supported the IT Park project and that their involvement revealed political motives behind the agitation.
“I remain open even today to facilitate dialogue and discussion in the interest of Toyaar Lake, Chimbel village and its residents, along with the Hon’ble Chief Minister,” Fernandes said.
The UNITY Mall proposal at Chimbel has triggered protests by local residents and activists who fear it will harm the lake and the surrounding eco-sensitive zone, turning the project into a major political flashpoint in North Goa.
