Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The opening day of the three-day Goa Assembly session saw Opposition leaders launch a broad attack on the government, raising questions over the duration of the session and several issues affecting the state.
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao criticised the government for restricting the Assembly session to three days, saying the Opposition had demanded at least 15 days to adequately debate matters concerning the people of Goa.
Alemao accused the government of failing to address key concerns relating to healthcare, infrastructure, education, unemployment, environmental protection and law and order. He also raised concerns over the increasing pressure on the Goa Medical College, pollution of rivers, unemployment among Goan youth and recent shooting incidents.
He alleged that the government was avoiding wider public sentiment by limiting the time available for legislative discussion and questioned its handling of public safety and social harmony.
MLA Viresh Borkar called for greater Opposition unity, saying defeating the BJP and protecting Goa’s interests should remain key priorities. He said his party was strengthening its organisation at the state, district and block levels while continuing discussions with like-minded political parties.
Borkar also welcomed increased participation of women in politics, saying greater representation would help ensure that women’s concerns receive a stronger voice in decision-making.
Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai raised concerns over employment opportunities for Goans, healthcare, Goa’s carrying capacity and the condition of the South Goa District Hospital.
Sardesai also spoke about the debate surrounding the demand for Marathi to be recognised as an official language, while raising concerns relating to the Catholic community, religious institutions and proposed legislation. He said Goa’s identity, employment opportunities and social harmony should remain central to the government’s priorities.
MLA Venzy Viegas targeted the government over rising prices of essential commodities ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi, electricity bills and concerns surrounding water security.
Viegas said water security should be treated as a priority and raised the Mhadei issue and environmental protection as matters requiring greater attention. He also questioned the government’s decision to hold only a three-day Assembly session, arguing that legislators need adequate time to debate issues affecting the people.
