The recent issuance of defamation notices by the Tivim Comunidade Management to approximately 15 individuals, including well-known Gaunkars, has sparked significant concern within the local community. The notices are in response to questions raised regarding a controversial land deal involving a Pune-based university, a move that stands to alienate the very constituents they claim to represent.
The community’s reaction to the proposed land deal has been marked by apprehension and scepticism, and rightly so. Land in Goa, especially that associated with communities, carries deep historical and cultural significance. It is often viewed as an inheritance protected by ancestors and should not be seen merely as a commodity to be bought or sold. Given the rich heritage and collective values of the Tivim villagers, the management’s response to the controversy has raised serious questions about their commitment to transparency and accountability.
Rather than addressing the concerns raised by the Gaunkars and Tivim villagers in a constructive manner, the management’s decision to issue defamation notices appears reactionary and defensive, suggesting a reluctance to engage with the community’s valid apprehensions. Instead of promoting open dialogue to clarify the terms of the deal or to ensure its alignment with the community’s interests, the management has taken an adversarial stance which only serves to heighten tensions within the village.
Moreover, the determination of certain members within the Tivim Comunidade to push the deal through becomes increasingly puzzling, particularly in light of past incidents in Goa where some community management members have been implicated in corruption and illegal encroachments on community lands. The historical context of such actions raises alarming questions regarding the integrity of the current deal and the motivations behind it.
Goans, including those in Tivim, must take an active role in monitoring the actions of their community management. It is crucial that villagers come together to advocate for their rights and ensure that their voices are not silenced. Effective community governance should be built on trust, transparency, and a genuine commitment to serving the interests of all citizens, not just a select few.
The Tivim Comunidade Management has an opportunity to shift its approach from one of defensiveness to one of inclusivity. By opening channels for fair discussion and creating a platform for community members to express their concerns, the management can help rebuild trust and demonstrate true leadership. If they are unable to provide clear and satisfactory answers to the myriad concerns raised, it would be prudent to reconsider or even cancel the proposed deal.
As stewards of the land, the Tivim Comunidade must recognize their responsibility to the community, embracing maturity and humility in their decision-making process. The future of Tivim, its lands, and its community should never be sacrificed for the sake of expediency. Instead, it must reflect the collective aspirations and well-being of its people, grounded in respect for their heritage and the environment in which they thrive. By fostering an atmosphere of accountability and dialogue, the community can ensure that its cherished inheritance is preserved for generations to come.
SURAJ BNANDREKAR
Editor, Goemkarponn
