In what appears to be the latest episode in the ongoing soap opera of Goa’s political theatre, Minister Subhash Phal Desai’s remark terming his own portfolios as “chillar” (petty) reeks of arrogance, entitlement, and a startling disconnect from the responsibilities of governance.
Coming just days after the unceremonious sacking of Govind Gaude for his outbursts against the Chief Minister, this latest comment has triggered fresh outrage — and rightly so. If holding portfolios like Social Welfare, River Navigation, and Archives and Archaeology is deemed “chillar” by a sitting minister, one wonders what the minister’s real motivation is. Power or public service?
Let us be very clear: Social Welfare is not chillar. It is the soul of any compassionate government. Goa’s elderly, persons with disabilities, widows, single mothers, and economically weaker citizens depend on a vast array of welfare schemes for basic sustenance. From Dayanand Social Security to Griha Aadhar, these schemes are the difference between dignity and destitution for thousands. If the minister finds this responsibility beneath him, it is not the portfolio that is small – it is his vision.
Similarly, the River Navigation Department is not a side hustle.
In a state crisscrossed by rivers and ferries being a lifeline for thousands in remote and island villages, efficient river navigation is a matter of livelihood and safety.
The recent Chorao ferry mishap should serve as a sobering reminder that this is not a department to be dismissed as petty. In fact, it is a crucial piece of Goa’s infrastructure puzzle.
The Archives and Archaeology department might not fetch large budgets or bring headline-grabbing tenders, but it plays a critical role in preserving Goa’s rich and unique cultural identity. Our monuments, records, and heritage sites – often neglected or encroached upon – need urgent protection and restoration. Any self-respecting Goan knows the importance of heritage in defining who we are.
So what exactly did Phal Desai mean by calling these portfolios “chillar”? Is he hinting that only departments like PWD, TCP, Home, Tourism, or Finance are worth a minister’s pride and energy? If so, he betrays a disturbing belief that governance is about power and perks, not the public good.
His comment also opens up speculation: is he publicly sulking in anticipation of the next Cabinet reshuffle?
Is this a veiled protest against being left out of the so-called “power portfolios”? Or is he simply undermining his own department to send a message to the Chief Minister?
Whatever his intent, the fallout is damaging. It sends the wrong message to bureaucrats working hard in these departments.
It demoralises the very officers and staff who strive to implement welfare schemes or maintain ferry services in difficult conditions. Most dangerously, it insults the lakhs of citizens who rely on these services daily.
This is not the first time Goa’s ministers have shown a lack of respect for the institutions they are meant to serve. But there is a growing pattern here – of ministers viewing their positions through the lens of personal ambition rather than public service.
The sacking of Govind Gaude, the “chillar” remark of Subhash Phal Desai, and the silence of the Chief Minister in the face of these repeated outbursts point to a Cabinet that lacks unity, direction, and maturity.
What Goa needs today is a team of ministers who treat every portfolio — big or small — with equal seriousness. A portfolio is not small if it touches lives.
A department is not insignificant if it serves the people. And a minister is not judged by the title on his office door, but by the impact he makes.
If Minister Phal Desai finds his current ministries unworthy of his time, he must clarify his position – or resign.
Goa deserves ministers who are proud to serve in any capacity, who wear their responsibility with humility, not hubris. The people are watching, and they are not impressed by “chillar” excuses.
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