[VascokarsUnited] AND THE WINNER IS .......the old baber -China . iffi 2006
In a rather sombre atmosphere sans many a luminaries from the cinema world the 10 day 37th International Film Festival from 23rd November, 2006 to 3rd December, 2006 concluded this evening at a scheduled and brief ceremony. Surprisingly there was not much enthusiasm seen around the venue at Kala Academy Campal Panaji this evening and one of the officials remarked to this writer that probably since an IB bureaucrat would be presiding over the same there was not much to happen. The festival dubbed as International is ironically restricted to films from Asia, Africa and Latin America, though the festival is recognised by the International Federation of Film Producers Assocns. The foreign contingent was missing except a few less than fifty perhaps this time round. The settings were a distant shade of the first IFFI 2004 in Goa which by all counts and was almost of an international standard. This time round there were many hiccups as reported earlier, the unseasonal showers and overcast skies on the first three days was enough to send shock waves to the organisors and those that had put up stalls along the Corniche - Indias longest promenade along the river front -- with rentals in the range of Rs 30,000 to Rs.50,000. Then there was that film buff crowd that came to see and touch the Bollywood actors actresses or just to be seen around sporting the Delegate batch. It was also found that fake delegate passes found their way leading to the rest of two non goans and one individual Mr Pujari from Classic studio on 18th June road Panaji who had assisted in the making of the pass. And finally of the 11 films in the Competition category one each from Argentina, Bangladesh, Brazil, Chile Germany, China Iran Israel Korea and Taiwan with two from India Sringaram Director Sharada Ramanthan and Sonam Alisan Muzid it was The Old Baber - from China Director Hasi Chaoulu won the Best Film Golden peacock and a cash prize of Rs. 10,00,000 Most promising Director: Silver peacock with a cash prize of Rs. 5,0/- went to the A short Life - Korea -Director An Kyung Lee The Special Jury Award went Rs. 5,0/ for an individual's artistic contribution - Abu Sayeed Bangladesh - film Nirontor. Today being the last day and a holiday with the feast of St Francis Xavier being celebrated on Monday and also Datta Jayanti on 4th December, 2006 there were large crowds witnessed along the Corniche Childrens Park the Inox Movie Multiplex and Campal National Water Sports Complex grounds. from the Kala Academy end GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES, BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA) +91 98221 58584 (24 HRS) [EMAIL PROTECTED] __ Yahoo! India Answers: Share what you know. Learn something new http://in.answers.yahoo.com/
[VascokarsUnited] OLD GOA FEAST CELEBRATED
At the stroke of 1030 a.m Rev Fr Manuel Gomes of the Pastoral Institute of St Pius X began with a brief introduction of the theme Christian witness in the Society : Challenges of the Eucharist Kristi Govaiki Somazant: Hench Porsnm sonsvkarnchem Avhan of this years celebration which is the 500th Birth Centenary of St Francis Xavier born on 6th April 1506, at Navarre in Spain - ordained a priest at the age of 31 yrs and died at the age of 46 yrs and spread the word of God in just 15 years . Later the stream of priests entered from the precincts of the Bom Jesus Basilica at 1040 a.m. for the Eucharistic celebration by Bishop Percival Joseph Fernandes Bishop of Mumbai alongwith several others viz Apostolic Nuncio Emeritus Blasco Colaco Archbishop Stanilaus Fernandes and Abraham, Bishops Thomas Makwana Godfrey de Rosario Alwyn Baretto and Bishop Ferdinand Fonseca including our own Archbishop Emeritus Dr Raul Niclau Gonsalves and Archbishop Patriach Most Rev Filipe Neri Ferrao who introduced the several Bishops. Incidentally the large assembly of Archbishops Bishops and Apostolic Nuncio Emeritus and Bishops was owing to the Western Regional Catholic Council meet and an earlier event in the State. In his homily the Bishop Fernandes who spoke in chaste Konkani and English for the benefit of the audience which included pilgrims from Portugal Spain and other parts of India, dwelt on the life of St Francis Xavier who had showed immense love for propagating the teachings of Jesus Christ. The only thing left behind by St Francis Xavier was a collection of nearly 130 letters written by him to his superiors and mentor St Ignatius de Loyola. These letters were blunt and do not have any literary niceties but it reflected his largeness of heart trust in God his meditation and prayer life. Many of the letters reflected the shocking failures of his dreams. Later Bishop Fernandes also stressed upon the importance of Sermon on the Mount which infact had an immense influence also on our own Apostle of Peace Mahatma Gandhi. At before the offetary members of the laity offered a model of a scale tagdi symbolizing justice, a House which reflects the symbol of a good Home, a banner with the words DO NOT GIVE BRIBES it is a SIN DO NOT TAKE BRIBES it is a CRIME and finally bread and wine a symbol of the mystical body and blood of Jesus Christ. The Mass which ended at 1223 p.m. was held in the specially erected shamiana. The back drop design of the stage was provided by one Mr Francisco Serrao which was tastefully designed and befitting the 500th birth centenary celebrations. During the past 10 days of the novenas the volunteers rendered great service to make the occasion a success. It must be said to the credit of all the Minister of Power Mr Digamber Kamat who ensured special lighting arrangements where the pilgrims from within and outside Goa rest and the vehicle parking areas and keeping the Old Goa without any incident of power cut. The police personnel at Old Goa Police station did a commendable job in ensuring the smooth flow of traffic, there was a word of praise to the local MLA and the Minister of Transport too. Nevertheless the buses made a quick buck charging one way fare of Rs.30/- per commuter from Margao to Old Goa via the National Highway bypass (no vehicles were allowed via Pilar ) The presence of police in plainsclothes also helped curb the light fingered gentry (pickpocketters) which are proactive on this occasion. (Given that Goa has a fair share of migrants such nuances cannot be done away with specially with the ostentious display of wealth by our own niz goencars on such festive ocassions) The PWD too had done a good job though much more needed to be done in maintaining the toilets and ensuring better water supply as there was a putrid stench emanating just around the Basilica as the sun perched itself on top. The priests and nuns too had put in tremendous grit and determination to ensure that there were no glitches and they deserved a pat too for having performed well and had scarce hours of rest and sleep. It may be noted that the Basilica was thrown open to the pilgrims from the wee hours of the morning at 0230 a.m. with the first mass at 0400 hrs until the feast Mass at 1030 a.m. followed by evening masses. The long winding beeline of pilgrims wishing to kiss the casket of the relics of the Saint (yesterday the Church precincts were closed only at 2230 hrs according to a volunteer Mr Godfrey Norton who spoke to this writer at the venue). In fact this writer observed that during the homily many of the pilgrims were in a near drowsy mood reflecting on the fact that many of them did not want to take the risk of being caught up in a traffic jam as witnessed last year. As a matter of fact almost the entire Rapid Action Force police force the volunteers and the security personnel were on their feet throughout the 10 day celebrations. It must be noted that many of
[VascokarsUnited] Cabinet approves -- NEW REGIONAL PLAN FOR 2007 - 2017
In a shocking development the maverick CM Mr Pratapsing Rane candidly announced after a Cabinet meet this evening that the Regional Plan 2011 would be de-notified and that a new Regional Plan now form 2007 to 2017 will be set into motion and perhaps completed in four to six months. Without elaborating on what would happen to the period from the end of RP 2001 to 2007 OR RP 2011. But this tantamounts to expecting the INC staging a come back following the ensuing elections which are expected to be held anytime in January, 2007 end (with developments in UP) and in any case before May 2007. Is'nt this a tall order many have begun to debate. The questions that therefore need answers: A) from what date will the Regional Plan 2011 be denotified --- will it be prospectively or retrospectively? If denotified prospectively, ie if after today's Cabinet decision i.e 18th January, 2007 will it not amount to allowing all the UNAUTHORISED/MODIFIED change in land use from 15.12.2005 (i.e. the last date for which suggestions and objections were invited from NGO's and others )until the final RP 2011 was notified on 10.8.2006? If retrospectively from 10.8.2006 will it also not amount to indirectly legitimising all change in land use as if they were changes made under the Regional Plan of 2001? thereby reflecting clandestinely what the draconian Ordinance of 29th September, 2005, now scrapped intended to do? Therefore who has outwitted the other the CM Mr. Pratapsing Raoji Rane or the Goa Bachao Abhiyan Convenors? Read on While activists of the Goa Bachao Abhiyan termed the announcement of todays decision as the people's victory; apparently, they did fear the BJP would extract mileage of their agitation, as its leader ex CM Parrikar warned the GBA not to level all 40 MLA's as responsible for the RP 2011 and threatened an agitation beginning the first week of February, 2007 ironically the date it was ousted from power 2nd Feb 2005 It may be recalled that the first public rally on eve of Liberation date 18th December, 2006 of the Save Goa Movement (later surprisingly re-christened an unfamiliar name Goa Bachao Abhiyan- indicating the hidden forces behind the Abhiyan ) registered a tremendous response. The X'Mass reception missive of His Grace Archbishop Patriach Filipe Neri Ferrao to the mainly Catholic MLA's and others appeared to have stirred the complacent Goans especially the Catholics from the Velhas Conquistas to the dangers ahead and this was reflected in the presence of the otherwise armchair critics in the forefront of the agitation in large numbers, i.e the landowners fraternity was seen in large numbers rubbing shoulders with their tenants and niz goencars to Save Goa. This time there were no migrants in the crowds. This also forced most of the BJP MLA's including ex CM and Leader of the Opposition Mr Manohar Parrikar to make his presence felt at the meet. Later gauging the situation the BJP had cleverly played safe and passed a resolution on 20th December, 2006 ; and after the sucessfull meet at the historic Lohia Maidan Margao on 16th January, 2007 40th anniversary of the Opinion Poll Day; no elected representative of the Goa Legislative Assembly could fail to take notice of the ground reality. It was also a moment of fear for the non-Goans who feared the nightmares of the language agitation. Many may not have noted that the nagri forces which constituted the Abhiyan with youth mostly born after 1986-87 i.e oblivious of the the language agitation were indeed playing a clandestine roll in the movement unifying what is known in political circles as Hindu Brahmanico-Cristao combine prevalent in the Velhas Conquistas ; which was threatening this seemingly strong communal harmony enjoyed by this community (since the colonisation and post Liberation) over the Catholics after the year long Romi lipi Front for official recognition to Konkani in Roman script led agitation threatened to divide this harmony with Uday L Bhembre ex Independent MLA and now Convenor of the INC think thank the villian of the scripts divide. (He was nowhere seen in the present RP 2011 agitation) It may be noted when the Romi Lipi Front activist and Convenor Mr Wilmix Mazarelo a playwright tiatrist (who was not allowed to speak at the Panaji meet though brought on stage) spoke about the language issue many of the Abhiyan leaders were visibly annoyed over this. True it was not an issue for this meet but it also represented the divide among the Goans that was inviting the realators to exploit the situation in Goa and hence unity in language Konkani diversity in scripts was a must Now or Never just as scrapping the Regional Plan 2011 for being manipulated was a must. The NCP Nationalist Congress Party of Dr Wilfred De Souza meanwhile was fully for scrapping the Regional Plan 2011 and had also given a clarion call to all Builders from outside the State (this time referring
[VascokarsUnited] MASSIVE RALLY AT LOHIA MAIDAN - RP -2011
At an impressive gathering at the Lohia Maidan Margao on the 40th anniversary of the Opinion Poll today the 16th January, 2007 since 1520 p.m. onwards speaker after speaker lambasted all the forty legislatures of the Goa Legislative Assembly as being responsible for the draconian Regional Plan 2011 which will spell destruction and ruination of our tiny little Goa if it was not de-notified. The Maidan was spilling with groups from mainly Salcete and Quepem talukas as was evident from the banners that were displayed NGOs Lok Shakti, SGPIAG , GOACAN etc too had their presence felt. In the words of Dr Oscar Rebello this was a gathering of Goans irrespective of whatever efforts are made in some quarters to create disunity he said this after he broke into a sob after reading out a small poem ( in English ) which described the portents of the draconian Plan if it sails true and the end of our tiny Goa. MP Churchill Alemao , Deputy Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly Ms Victoria Fernandes MLA Santa Cruz and Mr Mathany Saldanha ex MLA Dr Wilfred Mesquita were present . However it was Ms Fernandes who was showered praise for her valiant struggle to crush the ordinance of 29 September, 2005 by here bete noire ex Minister for Town and Country Planning Mr Atnasio Babush Monseratte, MLA of Taleigao, and she had assured them earlier that she would at the next Goa Legislative Assembly session on 22nd January, 2006 demand for the Regional Plan to be scrapped. It may be noted that a group of people had expressed resentment over the fact that Ms Fernandes was castigated along with others at the last meet held on 18th December, 2006 in Panaji , where she was present on the first seat alongwith Ms Sashikala Kakodkar ex CM of Goa as also being one of the forty MLAs responsible for the Regional Plan 2011 when most of the NGOs knew fully well that while she and Ms Patricia Pinto spear alongwith others including this writer headed the agitation many of the present leaders in the Goa Bachao Abhiyan notably Dr Oscar Rebello, Mr Aires Rodrigues Adv and others had shied away from the movement and also some among them had cast aspersions on her fight with Mr Monseratte as being an act of frustration over her son Mr Rudolf Fernandes not being considered for being nominated on the North Goa Planning Development Authority NGPDA. Others who spoke were Mr Wendell Rodricks who admitted candidly to have risen from humble beginnings living in achawl in Mumbai but who today rose to be a fashion designer rubbing shoulders with Aishwarya Rai merely because he believed in a dream and worked his way up with sheer hardwork and determination, it was his message to the youth present in large numbers (mostly activist of the Konknni devanagiri faction) to rise and save goa from imminent destruction. Dr Oscar Rebello demanded of the people of Goa a) to ensure that they get a written commitment from their elected representatives to say no to the Regional Plan 2011 b) to ensure that at the Gram Sabha on 26th January, 2007 they should pass a resolution (copy circulated in English) to scrap the Regional Plan 2011 by denotification as it was without the consultation of the village panchayats as required under 73rd Constitutional amendment c) to ensure that all acts of hill cutting land filling constructions on CRZ areas ruination of forests etc should be brought to the notice of the convenors of the Goa Bachao Abhiyan d) that at the next Assembly session on 22nd January the Assembly should demand de-notification of the Plan: Ms Patricia Pinto the ex Councillor of the Corporation of City of Panaji and social activist heading the Peoples Movement for Civic Action, spoke in English and she commended the efforts of the women who had led the Abhiyan thus far viz Ritu Prassad, Ms Sabina Martins and several others. She blamed Ms Margaret Alva ex MP and All India Congress Committee member and in Charge of Goa Desk as a big liar for stating that the Regional Plan was sent to all the Village Panchayats for their perusal and subsequent approval; when in reality it was the BDOs who invited these Panchayat representatives to their office to see the Plan and without examining the same had it cleared as approved by them. Both Mr Monserate and Mr Vishwajit Rane son of CM Pratapsing Raoji Rane came in for criticism as being responsoible for the destruction of Goa a reference to the expose on the NDTV where it was alleged that the young Mr Rane had 14 companies created in a span of six months. Mr Aires Rodrigues in his vitriolic talk added the necessary fuel to stir the susegad Goans to act now or never. In a fully surcharge talk as is his style he spared no words to shred the politicians the level of corruption into pieces with a final appeal to all the Cabinet Ministers to commit suicide and he would ensure their safe burial. He was unprepared to take Mr Rane's word about referring
[VascokarsUnited] MASSIVE RALLY OF ST's - niz goencars STUNS ALL
Perhaps for the first time the Azad Maidan at Panaji witnessed today 25th January, 2007 afternoon from 1430 hrs onwards a mammoth gathering of over seven thousand Schedule Tribes of Goa viz; Gawda Kunbi Velips ( some Dhangars as well ) for the Schedule tribes Mahamelavo ( Convention) Unique as it was since this was a gathering of ST's irrespective of political party affiliations. Mr Kunwar Singh Chairman of the National Commission for Schedule Tribes(a Commission set up since 19th February 2004 to oversee the implementation of the various safeguards provided to STs under the Constitution and allied matters; was impressed by the huge gathering. He demanded of the ST;s to ensure that they work unitedly to achieve their demands. He called upon the State Government to ensure that due representation was given to the STs in the Goa Legislative Assembly commensurate to their population which is about 12% of the population of Goa; He demanded that the State Government enhance the budgetary provisions for the ST;s from the 6.5 % to 12.5 %. There is a need to ensure that job opportunities were filled in at both the State and Central Government level. Guru Shirodkar (Adv) President of the ST Association in Goa in his speech ( the written text was circulated to all ) stated that for Development and protection a) Hindu people have Bhagwad Gita and the Trishul (trident) ; b) Christians have Bible and Trinity c) Citizens of our country have the Constitution of India and the three forces (apparently referring to Legislature Judiciary and Executive ) While the STs have everything but nothing for their development and protection. It was his view that the Bombay High Court should take cognizance of today;s deliberations and suo motu treat it as a Public Interest Litigation, or atleast the Chief Justice of India ( a SC for the first time in Indian history ) should do so. Some of the demands (printed copy circulated ) a) reserve 12% jobs in Central and undertakings of State Government for STs b) 12% seats in the Legislative Assembly c) enact Caste Certificate Act and Rules to streamline issue of Caste Certificates and weed out bogus certificates d) amend Land Revenue Code , Code of Communidades , Devasthan Act to provide for allotment of house sites lands plots for construction of house or cultivation; e) regularization or encroachments of agricultural lands or kumeri cultivation lands and compensation to be paid towards khazan lands on account of acquisition of the same by the Government of Goa f) to ensure training Scheme for the overall development as CAs Advocates etc and even to compete in Civil Services exams; g) Civil Services Boards to be constituted to oversee promotional avenues for STs h) Set up two residential schools in both districts i) Set up State Developmental authority to oversee socio economic development j) Set up special courts under the Protection of Atrocities Act 1989 by appointing Presiding Offices k) Implement all the recommendations made in the Venkatachallam Commission report of 11/8/2002. Those of the others who spoke or were present on the dais included : Mr Pandurang Madkaikar Minister for Transport and MLA INC Madkai Mr Prakash Velip ex BJP MLA Quepem Mr Ramesh Talwadkar BJP MLA Poinguinim Mr Vassu Mang Gaonkar BJP MLA Sanguem Dr Kashinath Jhalmi ex MLA MGP Fr Joaquim Fernandes from Utorda Shri Buduru Srinivasulu Member National Commission for Scheduled Tribes Side lights; The massive crowd of niz goencars shocked even the organisors There were no women in their traditional wear, but some of those on the dais wore the traditional head gear; The musical entertainment with the traditional ghumot was impressive The Chairman and Member of the National Commission for ST profusely apologized to the gathering as they had to leave the venue mid wayas they were required to fly off to New Delhi; Alcoholism gambling have led to the downfall of many members of the ST;s and some elected representatives too had taken to these vices; While the SC have a constituency to their credit and the present incumbent is a native of neighbouring state of Sawantwadi it is unfortunate that niz goencars have yet to find Constituencies reserved for them Honesty is the hall mark of most of these STs especially the women folk who have been dedicated workers but have never advanced economically and socially. Non ST politician fear that seven seats reserved for them notably Poinguinim Loutolim Curtorim Madkai etc would deprive the General category candidates and hence successive governments failed to uplift the ST's From the Azad Maidan end GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES, BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA) +91 98221 58584 (24 HRS) [EMAIL PROTECTED] __ Yahoo! India Answers: Share what you know. Learn
[VascokarsUnited] First Floriano Vaz Puroskar awarded.
The Thomas Stephen Konknni Kendr ---a registered Konknni research centre run by Jesuits at Porvorim Bardez Goa and named after a British Jesuit priest Fr Thomas Stephen a renowned linguist and Marathi poet who produced the first grammar of any Indian language(1549 to 1619) founded in March 1982 ---held today 4th February, 1987,--- a brief function at 1712 hrs at the Church of Our Lady of Grace, Margao (the 20th anniversary of the recognition of Konknni as the official language of Goa,) to present the first Konknni Martir Floriano Vaz Puroskar to its recepeint Mr Ashok Chodankar for his collection of poems Jivit Fulum di somestanchem It was indeed a sort of a grim reminder for the motely gathering of Konknni stalwarts tiatrists (playwrights) writers etc which included the family members of late Floriano, viz his sister Conceicao, Fatima and brothers Remedio (Antonio not present) that the body of young Floriano -- Goas first martyr for Konknni, besides the six others who died at Neura hailing from the village of Agacaim---would turn in the grave --- as Konknni mai 20 years later has yet not achieved what it ought to --- viz a language which could be driven like the wheels of a bullock cart with official recognition to Devanagiri and Roman scripts. Fr Pratap Naik Director speaking on the occasion, expressed deep concern that the young Floriano Vaz did not get the recognition he deserved for his supreme sacrifice merely because he came from humble beginnings and downtrodden section of the society. The conditions under which the family lives today is grim reminder of the fate of Goas first martyr. He explained the objectives of the TSKK (browse www.tskk.org) . He also stated that this years award winner of the first KM Floriano Vaz Puroskarwas awarded after a panel of two priests and a professor selected from among the three copies each presented by 11 writers and others. One was a book on some technical writing another on cookery, another on cartoons and finally the book a collection of a poems Jivit fulumdi somestanchem written by Mr Ashok Chodankar in devanagari and roman script was selected for the award which consists of Rs 5000/-and a momento presented by Mr Anton Gaonkar. Books sent is by past awardees of Fr Antonio Pereira S.J (founding member of TSKK--an award consisting of a shawl memento and cheque for Rs.25,000/- instituted on his 70th birthday to honour since 1991 those that have done at least 15 years of sustained work in the service of Konknni in Goa ) were not considered to allow others to have a fair opportunity to qualify for the awards. Prince Jacob incidentally who earned the title Prince given by Fr Antonio for his unique talent of mesmerizing the audiences with his fine performance on the Konknni stage reminded the audience that the people of Calangute showed the way by erecting a statue of the Father of the Opinion Poll Dr Jack de Sequeira, similarly since no justice has been shown to Goas first martyr for Konknni it is the people that will come forward do justice to the young soul He said further that it was indeed a great effort of the TSKK and a fine gesture that a non Catholic qualified for this award. Now that Mr Chodankar has received the award which is indeed is the owing to the blood of Mr Vaz it would be incumbent upon him to fight for justice. Goans he reminded the audience are not opposed to Devanagiri ; he only wondered why one was against Romi? Convenor of the Romi Lipi Action Front Mr Wilmix Mazarelo reiterated the demand for a statue of Mr Vaz to be erected in Margao for future generations to note his contribution to Konknni. Ms Prita Naik read two interesting poems from the book of Mr Chodankar which plainly revealed an interesting facet of an Goan who moves outside the country is treated as a human being without any barriers of caste religion and creed but while in India the division surfaces in every stream of our lives---The other emphasizing that Goans start dividing themselves killing themselves today what will be left if our unity is gone? This was appreciated by the audience by a thunderous applause. Mr Tomazinho Cardozo spoke about an youngster who had come out with a book on Konkanni cartoons and this he felt should deserve the support of all. He also had a word of praise for late Dr Manoharrai Sardessai who inspired him to write.. He bemoaned the fact of how eminent Goans ---Catholics like Jerry Braganza, who had rendered yeomen service to Goan society were Forgotten Heroes just because their were not from the prominent Pratishtit families. Ulhas Buyao --- in an emotional outburst felt deeply that 20 years later there no justice to an young lad who became a martyr following a cold blooded firing which took away his life. He said Konknni was always written in Roman script, it is his community members Bammani that imported a Shennoi from Mumbai (then Bombay )
[VascokarsUnited] FORMAL PROTEST LODGED AGAINST NAVY.
There was utter resentment at Karwar when this writer visited the INS Kadamba Base (Sea Bird) at Arga this morning. Since the early hours there were additional policemen, RTO officials placed at the Majali check post. Every four wheeler vehicle with a Goa State registration was being checked and the occupants asked if they were bound for Anjediv they should return back as the Naval authorities were not permitting entry to the Island. Many returned and some hired vans fearing that they may face the brunt of the Karnataka police relented and returned back without proceeding to get their vehicle numbers registered. Officials informed this writer at the check post that they were under strict orders from the Deputy Commissioner Karwar not to permit entry to any one for the feast. Meanwhile the Karvali Munjavu dated 2/2/2007 a local Kannada newspaper reported in its inside pages GOAN CHRISTINS GETTING READY TO VISIT NJEDIV CHURCH -- TO TAKE UP THE CHALLENGE POLICE PERSONNEL ARE GIVEN ORDERS --- it went on to mention that the Feast was not permitted for the last two -three years, inspite of this two buses confirmed their visit with devotees wearing identification badgesfor the Feast, since Goa government gave the island to the Nation the feast was required to be celebrated but now discontinued This apparently explained the heavy police bandobust. Later this writer visited the Officers Block to see Naval police force at the gates. A visit to St Annes' Church at Binaga Karwar indicated that the police jeep did visit the Church to ascertain whether any activities were underway -- seeing that no activity they left the place --but not without leaving local civilian policemen to maintain a watchful eye. Incidentally Fr Britto D Silva the Parish priest of St Anne's Church has been transferred since May on completing his term and is replaced by Fr an young priest. He was fresh incumbent and could not know much on the developments, when this writer had an hours courtesy call. Since the Feast has been discontinued the Anjediv issue is being looked after by Goa he stated. At the KRTC Bus stand at Baithkol, this writer spoke to drivers of KTC buses and the private buses who confirmed of strict checking of passengers who were bound for the feast. They however expressed inability to identify the destination of their commuters and the check post officials had not alternative but to send them they told this writer. Later, this writer was surprised to receive an email dated 2/2/2007 from the Leader of the Opposition Mr Manohar Parrikar which read thus: ** Dear Shri Gonsalves, This is with reference to your email regarding Nossa Senhora de Brotas at Anjediv island. In this regard, i have already sent your letter to Shri A.K. Anthony, Union Minister for Defence, New Delhi for considering it favorably. The copy of the same is attached herewith for your kind perusal. With warm regards, Yours sincerely, Manohar Parrikar Leader of the Opposition ___ No. 1- 3-05/Lead. Of the opp. Dated: 30th January, 2007 Sub: Permission for the Catholic Community to celebrate the Feast of Nossa Senhora de Brotas at Anjediv island on 2/02/07. Dear I am enclosing herewith the representation from shri Godrey J I Gonsalves, on the subject matter. Earlier as Chief Minister of the State, I had raised the Issue with Shri George Fernandes, the then Defense Minister, without any outcome. I request you once again to look into the matter and consider the same favourably. Thanking you, Yours (MANOHAR PARRIKAR) To, Shri A.K Anthony, Union Minister for Defence, South Block, New Delhi -11 ** Armed with this letter and the efforts of Mr Shantaram L Naik efforts to pursue the same with the Defence Minister Mr A. K Antony this writer lodged an official PROTEST over the highandedness of the Navy by handing over a letter as under to Cdr Bhupendra Joshi SSO (ops) Naval Base Karwar via ARGA. This was after a half hour discussion with him. Commodore K P Ramachandra expressed inability owing to some personal problem apparently apprehending what was in store for him. ** 02/02/2007 K P Ramachandran Commodore Naval Officer in Charge (KT) Reference is made to your fax message dated 1.2.2007 Its contents viz matter taken up with the higher authorities ..for viisting the church for customary feast and any.other religious acivity presently needs to be witheld ..due to major Defence exercise, is viewed with seriously by the Catholic community of Goa. This is owing to the fact that the specific conditions viz; customary feast on 2nd Feb and 10th Oct would be permitted even after the transfer of the Island in 1987 with due
[VascokarsUnited] CATCOMB AT SE CATHEDRAL or a DESCRECATED TOMB?
It was not the catcombs a la Paris that one could see. No layers of skulls stacked of those interred or deinterred but yes there were a few remants of bones as one steps into the first layer underground when this writer visited the spot this afternoon at 1645 hrs into the right side of the Chapel of St Bernard in the Se Cathedral at Old Goa. There are eight chapels and six chapels along the aisles of the Se Cathedral. Speaking to Rev Fr Leonardo Gomes the Parish priest of Church of St Catherine after the Mass at 1700 hrs today, 11th March, 2007, Fr Gomes claimed that the same was brought to his notice recently. It may be noted that the Archaeological Survey of India under which the Churches of Old Goa are placed being a world Heritage Monument, had been carrying out concealed wiring works for well over a month now with two workmen doing the works unsupervised by the Parish priest. Infact the wiring works have mercilessly cut into the walls of the church and the workmanship leaves much to be desired. While they were digging they chanced to strike on a stone slab close to the tomb stone before the Chapel of St Bernand and presto it caved in and what the workers are believed to have noted was an underground cavern. This was the version of one of the SIS security personnel from New Delhi manning the Old Goa Churches present at the venue and the same was corroborated in affirmation by the sacristian of the Church. Being a non working day this writer could not contact the ASI officials nor the contractor believed to be from Karnataka. But the fact remains laments Fr Correia who took office as Parish priest on 6th July, 2006 is that the ASI authorities niether pay heed to any thing that they have to say nor do the ASI authorities seek permission or inform the Parish priests of the activities underway. They do what they like but even if we put a nail on the wall they will question us And there are plans to cover this opening with a glass screen to allow visitors to have a peep in. But is the ASI a competent authority to decide on these issues does it not amount to defiling the sanctity of the precints. How can the ASI intervene in religious sentiments of a community with utter disregard to the titular head of the Church in Goa. To cite two instances Fr Correia showed this writer two letters one dated 11.9.2006 wherein it was pointed to the Deputy Superinteding Archaeologist the topmost official in Goa Mr N Taher that the statue of Jesus in the sanctuary of Miraculous cross being corroded by termites needed immediate restoration, This was despite an oral intimation earlier. But nothing happened . Only after putting it in writing and after over a month the damage was rectified but when and how the work was executed was unknown. Yet another incident was of illegal hutments being constructed just on the Northern end of the Church. It is intended to house some menial workers but it is often seen that some female vendor stays in the premises which earlier was a tatched hut but now has enclosures of metallic sheets. The place is frequented by men on motorcycle well past the closing hours. When this was brought to the notice of Mr Taher in writing on 28/12/2006 there was no action except a letter apparently addressed to the CA Gr II Field Officer Shri R P Wadgaonkar to ensure that any illegal activities to be checked with copies marked to others. But till this date the structures are in place, when this writer visited the area in the presence of some security personnel it was observed that most of the premises were in a shabby state and some locked, They only come at night stated Fr Correia. Interestingly just beyond there is a government run unmanned public toilet. It was built for the devoutees who come for the novenas said Fr Correa down beyond is the jetty for the cruise boats to dock in and visit the Se Cathedral claims Fr Correa. Could the toilet be used for indecent activities specially at dusk. Well this could not be ruled out. Meanwhile this writer learnt from a discreet source that most of the properties coming in the Ela, Sao Paulo Guntem Bhat in survey Nos 155/1 2 , 1/1, 86/1, 92/2 3, 97/1 2 , 1/2 , 153/1 149.1 150/1 145/13, 148/1, 146.1, 2, 3, 4, 151/0 107/2 3 4 ana area of almost 3,50,00 m2 are held in the names of some individual persons, the Government of Goa, the Konkan Railway Corpn Ltd, Communidade of Ela some Realtors but what irks the Parish priest is that some unknown persons have set up structures in the area there are some who come and pluck coconuts from the property and they do so with utter disregard to the Parish Priest. When this writer told Fr Correia that the ASI authoriites could not permit structures within 100 m2 of the ASI protected monuments under the law in force they should be pulled up for any violations Fr Gomes expressed his desire to put an end to all this but he was new to the area. Except for four original inhabitants in Ela the other
[VascokarsUnited] KABRASTHAN ISSUE RESOLVED??
A band of energetic youth comprising of Mr Stephen ex Military official Karate Instructor , Mr Mulla Irfan alias Babloo Chairman and Mr Zalil General Secretary besides others under the banner BLOOD OF GOANS FRONT have taken up the demand for a Kabrasthan for the Moslem community of Salcete ( which according to them is a population in Salcete of around 40,000 with Margao alone accounting for 18,000 ) since Thursday, 15th March, 2007 at 1730 hrs till the time of writing this post. They are vexed over the fact that despite assurances from all political parties in the past 28 years there is no political leader who has agreed to provide them a suitable place for burial besides the 17,000 m2 land at Pajifond atop a hilly terrain which is a partially motorable road mid hill while rest of the access to the grave yard is by foot on a steep gradient. They also affirm the fact that the terrain is of hard rock and is not easily permeable soil for a decent burial. According to Mr Artik Banducda General Secretary of the Jamiya Masjid they state that in the past they had made several attempts to get land from the Government. They were allotted a place at Chandrawado Fatorda to be shared with Hindus and Catholics but this was not acceptable to the Hindu community. Then they were given a land in Raia far away from the residential areas yet after some days they were shooed away from the area with stone pelting. They were also give a land in San Jose de Areal 21,500 m2 to be purchased by them and another 10,000 m2 to be given by the Government of Goa . But after the land was purchased there was stiff opposition and hence they had to put off the project for a burial ground and instead retain in for a place of worship. Left with no other alternative owing to the Opposition from all quarters the Moslems were frustrated as the existing burial ground at Pajifond could not meet the demands of Moslems who had to cope with space for an average of 6 to 8 deaths a month according to Mr Riyaz. Elaborating further Mr Riyaz one of the activists who spoke to this writer stated that the Moslem community decided to re-organise the space utilization plan which is used by the Sunni Moslems and the Tabli and Al Adis sects (who have their own Siddique mosques at Fatorda Khareaband etc and are like the Believers sect of the Catholic community) . But intervening their burial ground is a strip owned by the Khojas of the Prince Aga Khan Ismail sects for their exclusive use. Besides that they state the visits to the burial grounds on ocassion of burial of the dead, the Moslem community is required to visit it only on three occasions for prayers on Rmazan Id, Bakri Id and a day dedicated to the dead a la Souls Day of the Christians. Sensing the no nonsense attitude of the agitating Moslem youth politicians from Salcette tried to break bread with them; be it MP Churchill Alemao, Ministers Mr Francisco Sardinha, Mr Luisinho Faleiro, Mr Digamber Kamat and Mr Damu Naik MLA Fatorda However the youth for once decided to shun all political affiliations. They are clear on one point says Babloo the one who solves their demand will not only be held in high esteem but will earn the goodwill of all the Moslem community in Goa and Allah our supreme leader. When this writer made a site inspection of the burial grounds which according to these youth was donated by a Moslem family somewhere in 1887 though none of them could identify the donor or show the copy of the will donating such land, the place indeed reflects the ground reality as projected by the youth. However when they were asked to comment on why the burial ground was not usurped for re burial after a period of time say three four years as the Catholics do Mr Riyaz stated that they have recently decided to have the graves cleared off in three to six months This appeared an unbelievable reality but Mr Riyaz went on to explain to this writer that Zaanaza which means man you are dust and unto dust thou shall return most of the dead are buried with simple cloth rolled with camphor and baddishap in 1.5 metres depth and this is enough for the bodies to decompose readily. Accordoing to Mr Artik Banducda and a committee member of the 19 Mosques in Salcete an enterprising retailer and wholesaler cloth merchant of the famous Babu cloth shops at New Market and Gandhi market, he stated that there were complaints from the bereaved members to avoid such re-use of the graves at short intervals as some of the bodies were far from decomposed mainly the torso etc. Mr Riyaz also stated that the Moslem community had taken a decision to demolish all the old memorials erected that were sixty years old by some Moslems for their departed ones at the burial grounds to provide for space yet the y are in need of more space and hence the 7000 odd land would be of atleast temporary use to them. It may be noted that following a government decision to acquire an
[VascokarsUnited] KRCL ILLEGAL R.O.B IN FULL SWING
This representation was made to the Governor Mr S C Jamir this evening. It is now clear that it was because of political pressure that the construction of TEXEIRA PLAZA and not a RESIDENTIAL house of Ms Doris Texeira ex MMC Chairperson that the property PTS 237 Chalta 291 500 m2 was not shown in the plan. KRCL now states that the structure though not in the plan is 4.5.mts from the KRCL property. The PWD also used police force through the Margao Sub Divisional Police Officer/Dy S.P. Mr Tony Fernandes (who has since been finally shunted out of Margao and posted in the GRP ) and now a new Collector Mr G P Naik a favourite of the MLA Mr Digamber Kamat has been brought in place of the Acting Collector Mr N Sawant to cover up further illegalities, of failure to issue Land Acquisition notices to the affected families. Meanwhile it is hoped that the Governor who was proactive during the BJP led coalition regime will now pull up his own INC led coalition government for the harrassment caused to these individuals. ___ 19/03/2007 Mr S C Jamir, His Excellency, Governor of Goa MOST URGENT / TOP PRIORITY Raj Bhavan DONA PAULA Sir, You are kindly aware that your Government acting at the behest of its local MLA Mr Digamber Kamat, also Minister for Power, Art and Culture, Mining has pursued the much desired three Road over Bridges and one sub way to alleviate the problems of people visiting this cultural and commercial centre of Margao . This development is welcome and appreciated by all including the undersigned and residents of Pedda, Margao. However this does not give him or your Goverment the legitimacy to ride roughshod over the rules and regulations in undertaking the developmental activities. The following irregularities were brought to your personal attention by the undersigned during my visit to the Raj Bhavan. a) The Directorate of Land Settlement provided the PWD Div VI ( Road and Bridges ) at Fatorda the site and location plan showing the properties and the areas (which included among others the property of the undersigned PTS 237 Chalta No:52 10m2 ) to be acquired by Government of Goa and the same was forwarded to the Town and Country Planning Department by Assistant Engineer Div VI Roads and Bridges PWD for grant of NOC; b) It was noticed by the undersigned when information of the above project was obtained under the Right to Information Act, 2005 that none of the parties were notified of the intent of the Goa Government to acquire the land; c) It was also noticed that a property PTS 237 Chalta 291 admeasuring 500m2 was surprisingly NOT shown in the site and location plan for reasons best known to the Directorate of Land Settlement and Records and also PWD d) The KRCL Sr Regional Engineer Mr Gopal Raju and the Regional Railway Manager Ms Verma and also Mr R K Bhagwan KRCL dealing hand were made aware of the misrepresentation in c) above and it was informed to them in writing that the road over bridge as aligned by them would render our ancestral house an uneconomical holding DUE TO NON MENTION OF THE PROPERTY PTS 237 CHALTA 291 500 M2 e) Instead of KRCL stopping the work and seeking an explanation from the PWD (on whose behalf they were executing the work) , the Railways apparently at the insistence of the MLA referred above went ahead with the project as the Sr Regional Engineer also spoke of political pressure to execute the work immediately and ignore any protests f) the Chief Officer of Margao Municipal Council however at the instance of the Addln Collector Mr AGDS Pereira directed the KRCL to take cognizance of our request to shift and re-align the bridge to atleast 10 metres but the KRCL still went on executing the works without heeding to our request - and stated that the same was in view of the protests already shifted to 6.2 metres and cannot be shifted any further ' as the same is ALREADY CONSTRUCTED'. g) the KRCL, the PWD, the Directorate of Land Settlement , the Town and Country Planning AND MLA are all jointly and severally responsible for deliberately leaving out the property PTS 237 Chalta No 291 500 m2 as it belonged to the family of an ex Margao Municipal Councillor and an ex Chairperson Ms Doris Texeira. In fact the Railways had issued her an NOC IN 2004 before the bridge was conceptualised for a RESIDENTIAL BUNGALOW and not the present structure being undertaken that of a PLAZA. Yet the KRCL blamed the PWD the PWD blamed the Directorate of Land Settlement and despite these GROSS IRREGULARITIES the PWD used police force to construct the illegal bridge when they should have redressed the legitimate objections. h) It is also surprising that Ms Verma stated in her reply that the property PTS 237 Chalta No 291 which was NOT mentioned in the plan (on the basis of which KRCL was undertaking the works ) was well within 4.5. metres. It is surprising how the Railways identified the area when
[VascokarsUnited] SHOPS DOWN SHUTTERS IN MARGAO
New Market Vendors downed their shutters post lunch session today 9th May, 2007 following a stray incident where one vendor from this Market was allegedly brutally assaulted by another fruit vendor from the nearby Gandhi market. The assaulted victim happened to belong to the majority community while the accused happened to be from the minority community and also a non goan according to some. The altercation which allegedly resulted in the assault was on an allegation that the accused was found eve teasing ? his sister who was working in an adjoining shop near her brothers kiosk. When the victim warned the accused this afternoon it appears he did not take kindly to the warning and is alleged to have brought some others to assault victim. With the election process underway it is believed that the minority majority incident was opportunity enough for the majority community to whip up sentiments and emotions. The result the rumour mill was set agog. Until late evening when this writer visited the Police station the riot police were stationed at the Margao Police station. There was a demand by the New Market vendors to arrest the accused and his accomplices. Though tempers ran riot in front of the police station for some time there was no untoward incident reported thereafter. All shops in the ward No 13 the Central Margao were shut for the half part of the day. There are reports of another closure tommorrow morning but by then the Police will have probably detained the culprits and filed the formal FIR and NC case unless otherwise the victim succumbs to his injury. It may be recalled that Margao had been the bastion of the Bharatiya Janata Party for the last over a decade until Mr Digamber Kamat present MLA surprising switched sides and eventually returned to the Indian National Congress. This infuriated the BJP regime for Mr Kamat was the number two in the BJP led coalition party. During the bye election while a novice youth tried his best unsucessfully to unseat Mr Kamat even with Mr Parrikar himself leading the campaign this time round the BJP intends to leave no stone unturned to see that Mr Kamat is floored finally. It is the BJP contention that it is generally the minorities and some of the non Hindu Brahmins that have ensured Mr Kamats victory time and again and hence this incident is rumoured to have attained political significance to enhance the electoral prospects of the BJP. GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES, BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA) +91 98221 58584 (24 HRS) [EMAIL PROTECTED] Office firewalls, cyber cafes, college labs, don't allow you to download CHAT? Click here: http://in.messenger.yahoo.com/webmessengerpromo.php
[VascokarsUnited] MARGAO SHOPS DOWNED YET AGAIN
Having failed to nab all the six culprits the shops in Margao downed their shutters for another day to-day. Arterial bus services within the talukas visiting Margao suddenly went off the road. Some petrol pumps too closed fearing arson. In the morning the New Market vendors went around the city demanding the closure of the shops. This writer visited the flat on first floor F-3 Block B of Mr Rajesh Kuncolekar (married) Near the Sitara Motors at Navelim in Aisha Housing Complex and was given to understand by Mr Rajesh that at 11-10 a.m. the incident occurred when one Afzal who was warned to heed from teasing his sister who operates a cosmetic shop (while he and is father have a spice shop) nearby came to attack him accompanied by five others. After a brief wordy duel altercation Mr Rajesh claims he was fore arm at the elbow region was slashed by a beer bottle which the assailants had brought with them. As he was bleeding profusely they threw the spices some of which included his chillie powder. Unfortunately before any one could come to his rescue they fled in a Tata Indica bearing the No GA-01-E-1697. This has seen been attached by the Police. After treatment at the Hospicio where he stated to have recieved two stitches he was discharged. However he claims to have been hit on the back spinal cord region. While his charming innocent looking sister shyly admitted to have been a target of eve teasing, but appeared remorse over the assault. His father Mr Shantaram D Kuncalkar too admitted that unfortunately he had just left the shop as it was hot and humid and was absent when the incident took place. His brother too was present. Mr Rajesh appeared to this writer as a simple person and could hardly appear to have provoked the assault, except for his obvious verbal warning to Mr Afzal to cease and desist from eve-teasing his sister --- as would have obviously been expected of him. But today it is learnt that four persons have been arrested and as the closure has been causing enough inconvenience to the public it appears the closure of shops will be called off tommorrow. Interestingly while Margao wore a deserted look late evening with only KTC buses plying a five day cultural programme at Ana Fonte spring garden Pajifond was called off. The police force was rushed to the site to prevent any untoward incident. Today it appears that political parties stayed away from direct intervention apparently paying heed to the call given by the SP South Goa District Police to avoid a communal turn to the incident. The police have so far filed an FIR and booked some of the culprits including the vehicle. GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES, BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA) +91 98221 58584 (24 HRS) [EMAIL PROTECTED] __ Yahoo! India Answers: Share what you know. Learn something new http://in.answers.yahoo.com/
[VascokarsUnited] BABUSH MONSERRATE UNNERVES CONGRESS
In a shocking development on the last date of filing of nominations today which perhaps has left the Indian National Congress High Command non plussed, Mr Antanasio (Babush) Monserrate ex Minister Town and Country Planning and INC MLA Taleigao did a volte face and filed his nomination today both as an Independent and United Goans Democratic Party candidate. When this writer had a brief teletalk with Mr Monserrate this evening he confirmed having filed the latest nomination but was yet undecided on the final decision viz either to contest as an Independent or as an UGDP. Further probing by this writer revealed that Mr Monserrate will indeed settle for the UGDP ticket. Tommorrow 16th May, 2007 is the date for scrutiny of nominations and for withdrawals by Friday, 18th May, 2007. It may be recalled that Mr Monserrate had on New Years Day 2007 begun the year with a clear indication that his spouse Ms. Jennifer Monseratte ( a mother of two teenaged sons ) would contest the election from the Santa Cruz Assembly Constituency represented by his bete noire Ms Victoria Fernandes INC MLA. From then on it was evident that he would not settle for anything short of a ticket from the INC High Command for himself and his spouse. Apparently Mr Monseratte has reason to demand his pound of flesh for it must be remembered that he had held the entire INC bandwagon of INC MLA's and the defectors in his residence a typical fort Casa Monseratte Opp the St Inez Church when the ex BJP led coalition was being unseated in Jan-Feb 2005. Mr Monserrate despite the tirade launched against him has had records of sorts be it getting her elected to the Village Panchayat her unanimous election as the Zilla Panchayat Head for North Goa District and now ensuring her resignation from ZP Head and joining the UGDP and filing her nomination on UGDP ticket for the Santa Cruz Assembly Constituency. Even though the INC observers Ms Margaret Alva AICC General Secretary Mr S Patel and another Ms Mabel (an ex nun from Bhopal ) managed to impress upon Mr Monseratte the one family one ticket norm and finally managed to grant him the INC ticket, though Mr Monseratte filed his nomination a day before the INC granting him the ticket. His present volte face is a slap on the High Commands MM and others Maggie Mabel and others. The apprehensions of the local print media that Mr Monseratte has succumbed to the High Command for fear of tax raids and CI enquiries proved a hogwash and a figment of their own imagination. Mr Monseratte has been known to be a go getter, criticism does not deter and he is forever on the move despite criticism. He admitted once that he knows whart is best for the people of Taleigao and that has been amply proved when he won the mandate not for himself but also for his spouse in the local bodies election. He also managed to retain some wards of Taleigao in the VP as a quid pro quo for support to the then BJP led Parrikar government. Recently during the agitation against the Regional Plan 20ll ther Salesian fathers had an axe to grin with Mr Monseratte and this too did not deter him for he laid the blame on the entire Assembly for the same instead of being targeted as the enfant terrible of the TCP. However it was the TCP ordinance that gave him moments of despair for the government had to allow the same to lapse. Even otherwise the continued change of land use by over 900 amendments to the RP 2000 did not require the ordinance in any case for the ordinance appeared to legitimise and indeed appropriate to the TCP board which is a government appointed body the powers to arbitrate on land use making a mockery of the Constitutional 73rd and 74th amendment which indeed gave powers to the Panchayats and Municipalities through the District Planning committees to decide on developmental matters in their Panchayats and Municipalities and not in the hands of TCP Board or the Minister for TCP. On the other side it is learnt that Mr Ravi Naik GPCC President and MLA Ponda was keen that the INC gives a Muslim candidate at least one seat, given that a staunch Muslim leader from Shiroda, had impressed upon him to give the INC ticket to his brother in law from the Mormugao Assembly Constituency since the seat was represented earlier by a Moslem Haji Shaikh Hassan. But the INC apparently did not pay heed to his demand, and the seat was cornered by Mr Karl Vaz seating INC MLA Mormugao. Thus INC has not given a single seat to the Moslem and it is now left to be seen whether the Moslems opt for the UGDP Save Goa Front or the BJP for their electoral prospects. In yet another development the seat for the Fatorda Assembly Constituency has gone to Mr Vijay Sardessai a novice and a recent settler in Fatorda a la his new establishment built on the Margao Cortalim NH 17 which was alleged to have been built by mud filling and widening a bundh in a paddy field. (Evidently to a lay person this prima facie appears to be a clear
[VascokarsUnited] GOA POLLS 2007
GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES, BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA) +91 98221 58584 (24 HRS) [EMAIL PROTECTED] Download prohibited? No problem! To chat from any browser without download, Click Here: http://in.messenger.yahoo.com/webmessengerpromo.php [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
[VascokarsUnited] VOTING PEACEFUL DESPITE RAINS
When the fifth Goa State Legislative Assembly will be constituted in or around 10th or 11th June,2007, many of the veteran representatives will be missing from the House. This obvious outcome was evident today 2nd June 2007 when a significant number of over 68.6 % voters excercised their franchise, in the 1066 booths. At dawn the first signs of the polling pattern became evident as the overcast clouds spelt sporadic rainfall the entire day. There was a less than 30% overall polling in most booths by 12 noon but later the figures swelled. THough atleast 72 booths were treated as sensitive and armed central police forces were seen in and around the booths it must be said to the credit of the Election Commission that the polls were peaceful and incident free. There was voting going on well after an hour of closing as those in the Q before 5 p.m. were permitted to vote. For the first time sec 144 was imposed and this ensured that there was no reason for groups of five and above moving around. Vehicles were restricted within 100 metres of the polling booth. In the Curtorim Navelim Velim Constituency the sitting stalwarts seem to have bitten the dust. Generally in villages such enthusiasm does not seem to be visible but this time round the voters verdict seemed apparent that they voted for change. The precursor to this was the trend seen in most Village Panchayats in the first fortnight of May, 2007 when the new faces were elected. This trend voters say will reflect the Assembly results. A close confidant indicated that the BJP too would not perform as expected and would be content sitting in the Opposition. The Indian National Congress though maintained that they will clobber a majority on their own though in pre-poll alliance with the Nationalist Congress Party. The dual stance of the Indian National Congress is well known. It is therefore clear as of the time of writing that the fledgling new political outfit with its 7 point agenda would be in a commanding position to batter for power to take over the reins of the state. Meanwhile there were unauthenticated pamphlets distributed in favour of Mr Faleiro and against Mr Kamat in Margao while the national networks featured the expose on sale of land to the Russian by ex TCP Minister Mr Antanasio Monseratte. National audio visual networks billed the local elections as the fight between the INC v's BJP which was far from the ground reality where regional outfits and Independents have a clear stake. It was indeed sad that despite money being distributed and items like umbrellas sarees etc and local newspapers carrying news features on prospects of candidates at a price there was no way the voter could understand the political inticarcies of the candidates propects. The ban on sale of liquor issued by the Election Commission was appreciated by one and all even the missing posters and movement of propoganda vehicles and microphones which were curtailed came in for appreciation. The Election Observers too did a commendable job and the transfer of police and bureaucrats was widely appreciated. Indeed this was the best election Goans faced no doubt many could not vote owing to the missing names syndrome. But the message was loud and clear that a semblance was brought about in the conduct of elections and the Election Commission and officials and police deserve all the praise. This writer who visited several constituency in the North and South since 0630 hrs till 0815 hrs was delghted to see a peaceful and orderly election. The rains were a blessing in disguise compared to the humid atmosphere that the State witnessed in the past few days. from the Cavelossim Mobor end GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES, BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA) +91 98221 58584 (24 HRS) [EMAIL PROTECTED] Did you know? You can CHAT without downloading messenger. Click here http://in.messenger.yahoo.com/webmessengerpromo.php
[VascokarsUnited] NO CLEAR VERDICT ---GOA ELECTIONS 2007
In an electoral system where first past the post is declared a winner does one really get a representative with atleast a fifty percent majority of the votes polled ? The answer is an obvious NO. This system thus permits even a non serious contender to enter the electoral fray. This is what happens at all electoral battles and Goa was no exception this time round . 202 in all entered the fray for the forty seats.which included those on national parties, regional parties and a fledgingly new front and some 49 odd Independents. This leaves the voter confused in making a choice as not all voters go strictly by the Party. The result a hung Assembly The lowest margin 100 victory was by the scheduled tribe sitting BJP MLA Mr Ramesh Tawadkar against the Mr Isidore Fernandes INC while another sitting MGP MLA Mr Sudin Dhavlikar won by the highest margin of 7809 against Mr Govind Gaude of the INC. The NCP three victors were ironically those who were at logger heads with their chief defeated ex Dy C.M Dr, Wilfred De Souza . They are Mr Nilikant Harlankar from Tivim who opposed Dr's plan for a garbage site in Colvale. Mr Francisco (M ) Pacheco from Benaulim and Mr Jose Philip D Souza of Vasco-da-Gama For the octogenarian it is an unfortunate end to his political career. For Ramakant Khalap this second defeat too could end his political career just as he destroyed the MGP. The father and son duo won Mr Pratapsing Rane (9th term )and his son Mr Vishwajit Rane from Poriem and Valpoi in Sattari Taluka of the Novas Conquistas (1762-1961) they easily go as rulers of Sattari not representatives The husband wife duo could only see the success of Mr Antansio (Babush) Monseratte while his better half had to bite the dust . He however remains the tried and tested ruler: of Taleigao. He thought a lesson to the over 100 year old INC by his last minute ditching the party and leaving no INC party member in Taleigao yet they have left it to the High Command to decide whether he could help cobble a comfortable majority for the INC now. The brothers in arms Bhat Bamons Mr Sudin Deepak Dhavalikar have shown that the MG Party (wrongly referred as MAG by the Election Commission ) is subservient to their whims and fancies not the other way round. But this was not the case for Narvekars where the winner Dayanand Narvekar could not help his brother on Janata Dal (S) ticket win the seat in Mapusa even though he campaigned for him openly defying the INC. Sarpanch of Calangute Mr Joseph Sequeira a strong UGDP contender had to bite the dust against sitting MLA Mr Agnelo Fernandes again a victim of triangular contest. Ms Victoria Fernandes becomes the oldest and the lone women in the fifth Goa Legislative Assembly .The ex Speaker Mr Vishwas Satardekar of BJP had to face a defeat. Mr Ravi Naik INC had to face the toughest battle against an ex Police Officer Mr Lou Mamledar of the MGP . Mr Subhash Shirodkar INC a veteran INC member had to face defeat after a very long inning. Mr Mathany Saldanha UGDP who stood steadfastly with the BJP in trouble times a paragon of virtue finally ended his political career at the hands of Mauvin Godinho. Mr Francisco M Pacheco NCP Benaulim had to face a near exit at the hands of a 29 year old novice Mr John Fernandes a self confessed fisherman contesting on the Save Goa Front who was nominated just three days before the close of nominations and at a time when it appeared that the NCP candidate would win unopposed. The defeat of Dr Wilfred De Souza Mr Francisco Sardinha and Mr Luisinho Faleiro has a significance. All three were CMs . The first two were responsible for the BJP coming to power. They were also responsible for Mopa airport . While Mr Faleiro was also responsible for Mr Sardinha leaving the INC and joining hands with the BJP . The irony of it all is that the trio fought bitterly against each other and now are cooling their heels outside the political arena, It is now to be seen which of the two Sardinha or Luisinho will contest the vacant Lok Sabha seat. The UGDP has lost all the 10 of the 11 seats except that of Mr Monserrate . The UGDP can never consider this victory its victory but that of the individual. The Save Goa Party has a record of sorts . Its seven point agenda has no takers among the electors of the other parties except the UGDP especially the issue of official recognition to Konkani in Roman script. The party was formed in March end and Mr Alemao took over its reign on May 8 after which candidates were announced for 18 seats of which 17 contested. The party was interested in electoral victory in Loutolim, , Quepem, Curtorim Velim Navelim and Benaulim where Mr Alemao considered Mr L Faleiro, ( who marred his political career prospects since 1989) Mr Alexio Sequeira (related to Mr Eduardo Faleiro) Mr Chandrakant Kavlekar both responsible for approving SEZ and food park at Verna /Quepem But it managed only two one
[VascokarsUnited] CM - DIGAMBER KAMAT - on slippery path?
When the 53 year old Congressman turned BJP and back to INC, MLA elect Digamber Kamat youngest of only two sons of Mr Vasant Kamat a coconut trader (known in Madgaum social circles as naal Kamat ) was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Goa to the fifth Goa Legislative Assembly alongwith three others, Mr Ravi Sitaram Naik MLA Ponda Mr Sudin Dhavalikar Madkai MGP and Mr Jose Filipe De Souza NCP as Cabinet Ministers there was wide spread discontent not only within INC partymen but among Goans all over. Even the swearing ceremony at the Raj Bhavan lawns forced an eye witness to remark to this writer sarcastically -- did the people fear the rains ? --- pointing out to the fact that there were more vacant chairs then those occupied. Though there were no celebrations in Margao involving the true Madgaumkars there was festivities among the migrant and Moslem population of Margao slum areas with youth wearing T shirts and INC scarfs moving in procession in the evening in the city. When this writer spoke to three INC MLA's this evening for a post swearing in ceremony review they were clear that it was Mr Ravi Naik who ought to be the natural choice. Mr Dayanand Narvekar they contended stood no chance as he could not be carry people along amd his tarnished image. One of them even argued that with the new CM elect having a wafer thin majority and a coalition of sorts it would be difficult to wade through given the glaciers that abound outside. They were discreetly referring to Mr Antanasio (Babush) Monseratte and Mr Churchill Alemao both MLA elects of the Regional outfits UGDP and Save Goa Party now in the Opposition. It is difficult for this Government to survive they said and that may be inevitable given the fact that the BJP has now felt the need to review its intentions de novo. The total boycott of today;s swearing in ceremony was a precursor of the things to come. This is the first Hindu Saraswat Brahmin to become the CM of Goa and this time round the Hindu Brahmins have a greater representation in the Legislative Assembly though they constitute a mere 3% of the population of Goa. There is Mr Digamber Kamat, INC Margao, the Dhavalikar brothers Mr. Sudin and Mr Deepak of Priol and Madkai respectively of the MGP (though Bhat Brahmins ) and Mr Anil V Salgaocar INC a Bardeshi Brahmin. Even in the Opposition benches there are two Mr Manohar Prabhu Parrikar BJP of Panaji and Mr Vijay Pai Khot BJP of Canacona Constituency. It is of interest to note that the Hindu-Brahmanico Cristao combine has a strong influence in the society in the Velhas Conquistas (1510-1961) which have 22 Assembly constituencies and is the real properous Goa known world over as against those in the Novas Conquistas ( 1973-1961 ) which is essentially the Hindu Bahujan Samaj stronghold. There is an apparent fear that with the MGP given a decent burial and the BJP almost following suit with todays development the Hindu Bahujan masses will be relegated to second class position, and ensuring the Manu Smriti version revival of the dominance of the Hindu Brahmins as the God incarnates on others becoming subservient to them. Is it also the beginning of the Sunaparant ?? Since caste stratification is the biggest ills of Indian society it was social engineering in politics that ensured that the non Brahmins get a chance for governance but this has not happened and hence the discomfort. It must be said to the credit of Goa's first Chief Minister late Bhausaheb Bandodkar and his daughter Ms Sashikala Kakodkar. Later Rajasthan descendant Mr Pratapsing Raoji Rane a scion of late Dipaji Rane that had kept the Saraswat Hindu's at bay for well over a decade until the late 1989 when Mr Rane was dislodged as the then longest serving CM of India next to Mr J B Patnaik ex CM of Orrissa. Mr Digamber Kamat however has fulfilled his life ambition of being a Chief Minister. It may be recalled that even in the BJP Government he had not taken too kindly to Mr Ravi Naik who was then in the BJP being appointed as the Deputy Chief Minister but had conceded to this position as Mr Naik belonged to the 52% Bhandari Samaj and since the BJP is seen as the right wing Hindu upper caste and traders party they had to give a semblance of Hindutva by taking others caste Hindus into its fold. But that Mr Kamat harboured such intentions of Chief Ministerial chair was obvious for when the Parrikar Government was dislodged in January 2005 end it is alleged that there was a last minute bid to save the BJP Government if Mr Kamat was put in the CM chair after Mr Parrikar stepped down but since that did not happen he quit the party under the guise of being suffocated in the BJP. Later when the INC Government was formed on 7th June 2005 after the brief spell of Presidential rule, Mr Kamat aspired for the CM position was denied the same., though Mr Rane ensured that he was given a quasi Deputy CM status. Thus eventually it was a late night
[VascokarsUnited] WILL INC COMBINE BITE THE DUST ? - Speaker's election
Will the INC 16 + NCP 3 + MGP 2 + Ind 1 total 22 combine succeed in passing a motion declaring their nominee Mr Pratapsing Raoji Rane INC MLA elec the Speaker of the 5th Goa State Legislative Assembly? OR Will the BJP nominees Mr Laximikant Parsekar MLA elect Pernem ex BJP President or Mr Francisco D Souza MLA elect Mapusa OR Will the Independent MLA of Sanvordem Mr Anil Salgaocar Mineowner and industrialist ( who earlier extended support --via a letter-- to the INC combine ) and now yet another surprise nominee of the BJP for the Speakers post ---win the motion declaring him the Speaker and thus end the week long reign OR ensure a continued governance of CM Mr Digamber Kamat INC MLA Margao. These are developments that took place today afternoon at the Secretariat Porvorim at the end of filing of nominations for the Speaker's post. Earlier in the day in an interesting development Mr Anil Salgaocar MLA elect of Sanvordem and a mine owner appealed against an order of a trial court judge Mr S Natekar to be present in person in court. Mr Salgaocar MLA plea expressing his inability to be present in person at a hearing of a case pending against him, on grounds of exigencies of business and old age 64 years, besides his physical disability owing to an illness was turned down by the judge on grounds that if he could travel abroad there was no grounds to accept Mr Salgaocars contention that he could not attend court in person. Obviously this would mean that Mr Salgaocar an industrialist mine owner and now MLA would create a record of sorts being hauled up in the witness box and this would not augur well to either his personality or status for he is known in industrial circles to have the power to rock the establishment (read government) Many believe that this development could be the reason for his sudden volte face against the INC combine government of CM Mr Digamber Kamat to whom he earlier pledged his support. The presence of an industrialist mine owner in the Goa Assembly whose stakes in the removal of River Princess over due since 20th April, 2007 has been a dangling Damocles sword for successive Minister's of Tourism in the state ever since it remained embedded in the sea off the Candolim beach in North Goa Bardez taluka will definitely dictate the political drama before the government gets into the saddle for governance. Further with the exception of the UGDP 1 and Save Goa 2 all others viz NCP INC and BJP can merge (they need two thirds of their present strenght in the House to do so and support any combine for the Government that will bring stability. Thus will it be a merger two thirds of the 16 INC MLA's with BJP MLA's or the smaller entities like UGDP 1 SGF 2 Ind 1 OR two thirds of the 14 BJP MLA's with the INC MLA's or with the two thirds of the 3 NCP MLA's plus other splintered groups UGDP 1 SGF 2 MGP 2 Or will there be expulsions of members by their respective parties which will render them as unattached members in the House? All eyes are on the two BJP MLA's of Canacona and Poinguinim . There was also a furore created by the visit of Mr A Lourenco Save Goa Front Curtorim MLA elect to New Delhi. But the whip issued today has averted any further damage. The Front has now gained a recognised status of a State Party following over one sixth votes polled. The UGDP MLA's status is now a question of law for it does have MLA's who contested on its party symbol two leaves in the newly carved State of Jarkhand (a part of Bihar ) With this, tommorrow when the House meets to elect the new Speaker of the Goa State Legislative Assembly at 1100 am MLA's of Goa could be creating yet another record of sorts. There is a general feeling in Goa that notwithstanding the secular image the hotch potch combination may not augur well for the present ruling dispensation and therefore a combination that could give STABILITY would be in the fitness of things given the pulls and pressures one witnesses in a coalition of sorts. The INC has its MLA elect in all Talukas except Canacona ( both MLA's of its two costituencies belong to the BJP ) and in Sanguem Taluka (one of two Assembly constituencies belong to the BJP and another to Independent MLA his support has now come to the BJP) Therefore the INC could appoint Ministers so that all talukas are looked after and the rest given corporations. But not many INC combine MLA's believe in Supreme sacrifices a la Ms Sonia Gandhi, hence the unpredictable status of the present combine which does not augur well for this tiny 25th State of Goa. Friday the 15th June 11.00 a.m IST will spell all that. GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES, BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA) +91 98221 58584 (24 HRS) [EMAIL PROTECTED] Looking for people who are YOUR TYPE? Find them at in.groups.yahoo.com
[VascokarsUnited] GOA REVOLUTION DAY - AN AGENDA FOR CRISTAOS
Goa to the world is the Velhas Conquistas (Old Conquests where the erstwhile rule of the Portuguese (25.11.1510 to 19.12.1961)created a symbiosis of the East meets West a Rome of the East because of prosyletisation meaning the religion of the King (of Portugal ) ought to be that of the ruled. The Kashi of the South a reference to the temples in Goa in the Novas Conquistas(New Conquests) 1763 to 19.12.1961 and its predominantly Hindu culture is till today not believed by people the world over to be a part of Goa. Blame it on the promotion policy of projecting only the coastal (102 kms coastline ) tourism in Goa in the early post-Liberation period. Yet even today with the promotion of the western ghat talukas (Goa has three regions coastal, midland (mining) and western ghat talukas) --eco tourism or adventure tourism -- Goa 365 days still many tourists national and international descend only to relish the charms of the Velhas Conquistas. A shocking reality today however is that while the Cristaos were the dominant community during the Portuguese era with the Konkno Bammon always playing second fiddle today there is a clandestine rapid reversal of roles with the Konkno Bammon taking over as the dominant community. Partnership firms galore were testimony of this Cristao Konknno Bammon combine -- there was Dempo-Souza, Agencia Sequeira (Dr Jack de Sequeira and Damodar Nayak) and several others. The Portuguese always gave commercial and industrial licences to Cristaos even if a Konknno Bammon expressed his desire to run one . But with the rule of Dr Salazar the winds of freedom were fanned in Goa and during this period there was a silent revolution taking place to ensure the supremacy of the Konknno Bammon to replace the Cristao dominance in political social and especially economic spheres once the Portuguese were shown the door. There was never a Cristao Konknno togetherness but a mere tolerance owing to political reasons. It was in the year 1925 when the RSS was formed in India and in unliberated Goa the Hindu Mahasabha founded its roots. The Gomant Vidya Niketan in Margao was founded in the same year. The first Konkani Parishad which was held in 1939 in Karwar to promote one language (Konkani) one script (Devnagari) was the outcome of this ideology --- to relagate the Cristao to second position post Liberation. Many of the age old relations based solely on trust word of mouth uttor and a semblance of inter-religious unity began to shred apart or to witness revolts and were subject matter of long drawn litigations --- a sudden friends turning foes era was given birth. Eventually partnerships viz Dempo Souza became merely Dempo while the Souza was sent into wilderness after a protracted legal battle in Portugal. The Sequeiras were given the outdated Leyland while the lucrative venture of the Tatas went to the Nayaks ( whose kin was the late Anant Narcinva Naik) Post liberation the Albuquerque Khaunte partnership ALCONS fizzled out with each partner going its own way. These are some of the notable splits that occurred. Many of the Cristaos who had considered the Konknno Bammons as their friends were indeed deceived. They took over most of the Cristao run establishments. Margao city can easily provide a case study of this ground reality. They also clandestinely took over the properties hitherto abandoned by those that went to Portugal. Many of them also encroached literally grabbed land from the Cristaos or created third party rights and usurped unoccupied land or land belonging to absentee Cristao landowners. Communidade land is no acception to this malaise. There were others who were tenanted but refused to leave and entered into long drawn litigation under the obsolete Rent Control Act and came into adverse possession of properties that belonged to the Cristaos. Even to this day many Cristaos find it difficult to evict their Hindu colleagues who were given shelter in their back yards on compassionate ground as they had come in to earn their living in the Velhas Conquistas. Today many a Cristao land owner also finds it difficult to sell their lands because the political forces support these tenants to demand more then their legitimate dues. The situation for the Cristaos is so alarming that eviction even with a pragmatic consideration is no longer possible. But according to the Konknne Bammons that this writer spoke to many who are colleagus and friends agree that it is the Cristaos who are owners of vast properties palatial houses and land mostly in the Velhas Conquistas. They blame the Cristaos here for either abandoning their houses and land or leaving the land barren until destruction. A case in point is the house of Dom Moraes at Santa Cruz. They also blame the Cristaos for having allowed non goan migrants into their back yard and in almost all the Cristao dominated villages in the Velhas Conquistas. They blame the Cristaos for not selling their
[VascokarsUnited] CABINET EXPANSION - GOA
Will the CM Digambar Kamat -*Digubab or Naal Kamat finally muscle courage ---albeit with the blessings of the Empress Ms Sonia Gandhi INC President ---to expand the Goa Cabinet tomorrow Monday a day Madganvkars dedicate to Lord Damodar Dambab the incarnation of Lord Shankar Krishna Vishnu and a day which provides a grim reminder of the State of Emergency imposed by late Ms. Indira Gandhi 32 years ago. In all probability it will? Under the watchfull eyes of two INC party observers who will fly down to Goa according to a source in New Delhi this writer spoke to this evening. But there may not be the distribution of loaves and fishes read portfolios if a last minute hiccup develops. Following the 91st amendment to the Constitution of India, the size of the Cabinet - the policy decision taking body --of the Govt of Goa, there can be a minimum of 12 ministers in small states or 15% in large states. Goa can have 12 inclusive of the CM. The posts of Speaker and Deputy Speakers are excluded. The INC has 16 seats the NCP 3 MGP 2 and Ind 2 all these have extended support to the Govt pre or post elections. The SGF 2 and UGDP 2 have of their own accord extended unsolicited but issue based support to the INC. The support is welcome by the INC -- atleast it will keep the boat from rocking until major political events get underway - viz elections of the President in July 2007 and the bye-election in post monsoons Sept/Oct -- but beyond that the preparedness for the Lok Sabha elections in May 2009 or a midterm poll expected much earlier will all be the concern of Digu Bab's coalition government. The appointment of Parliamentary Secretaries is a new development to circumvent the Cabinet size restrictions, though this was challenged in the HC of Haryana. This is a rank equivalent to the Minister of State . No doubt ministerial experience/caste pandering will be the criteria for Cabinet expansion. The talukas that will be unrepresented in the Cabinet will be Bicholim - Pale INC Sanguem - Sanvordem Ind (until River Princess issue is resolved ) and Canacona. There will be some surprises ---one surprise entrant and two defacto loyalists sidelined in the Cabinet composition. Keep your fingers crossed. GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES, BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA) +91 98221 58584 (24 HRS) [EMAIL PROTECTED] __ Yahoo! India Answers: Share what you know. Learn something new http://in.answers.yahoo.com/
[VascokarsUnited] INDEFINITE HUNGER STRIKE - MLA -SANTA CRUZ
In a dramatic development a precedent of sorts in the anals of Goa's history the never say die septugenarian ex Deputy Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly and four times elected representative of the 12 Santa Cruz Assembly Constitutency Ms Victoria Fernandes who earned the sobriquet of Rani of Jhansi ( reference to the 1857 mutiny ) went on an indefinite hunger strike when she learnt that she was denied a cabinet berth at todays swearing in ceremony at the Raj Bhavan lawns this morning. The orange saree clad veteran politician a firebrand politician who took on her own colleague the then Town Country Planning Minister Mr Antanasio (Babush ) Monseratte against the ordinance which threatened to destroy this tiny beautiful 25th State of India stayed parked in front of the Panaji Steamer Jetty near the Customs House and threatened to continue to do so indefinitely demanding that those responsible for doing injustice to her legitimate claim for a Cabinet berth should stand exposed. She is also credited for having created a furore when she raised her voice at a Forum in the Goa Legislative Assembly when she boldly represented before the President of India Dr A P J Abdul Kalam about the rampant destruction of the State. The President who was taken up by surprise at this informal protest took cognizance of her conscientious appeal and directed the Government of Goa to lend a ear to her genuine grievance. When this writer spoke to Ms Fernandes via cellphone +91 9823253809 this evening -- she stated that her demands were logical --- she was the lone women representative in the Goa State legislative Assembly; she had no scandals against her; she had fought against the draconian TCP ordinance to protect the State from rampant destruction. even during the recent Goa Bachao Abhiyan agitation against the Regional Plan 2011 she was always in the forefront irrespective of her then status as a Deputy Speaker for she felt that the interests of the State was always dear to her than party considerations.Finally she had despite monetary influence managed to humble Ms Jennifer Monserate wife of the TCP ex Minister and present UGDP MLA of Taleigao to third position thereby proving that her stand had the support of not only the people of Santa Cruz Constituency but also Goa at large. When asked specifically her views on the Chief Minister Mr Digamber Kamat who under the Constitution is expected to select among the MLA's those who enjoy his confidence that being his perogative to do so-- she stated that Mr Kamat lay the blame entirely on the High Command and he feigned helplessness in the matter. When probed deeper into the likely party High Command observers who were intent on ensuring denial of a Cabinet posting she bluntly blamed -- the All India Congress Committee General Secretary looking after the Goa Desk Ms Margaret Alva for misrepresenting facts before the High Command. She said -- she is the culprit for giving all this false picture to the High Command This writer tried to make frantic calls to Ms Margaret Alva to ascertain her views on her cellphone 09868100099 but the same was out of coverage area. When asked to elaborate further on who in her opinion she felt should not have been given the portfolio in todays expansion which included one fresh entrant Mr Vishwajit Raoji Rane Independent MLA from Valpoi and son of the Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly Mr Pratapsing Raoji Rane--- she merely said that it was the perogative of the Chief Minister but stressed that with her unscathed record as state above she ought to have been given the Cabinet berth. This writer came interacted with a large section of women to learn of their reactions to the denial of a Cabinet berth to Ms Fernandes; they expressed disgust against the INC. They were in unanimity that money power was the sole criteria in deciding berths and not loyalty or sincerity. Others felt that the INC has been reduced to shambles-- one person questioned this writer objectively --- and expected a reply -- when he blamed to High Command for following a dual policy in alloting tickets.. When asked to elaborate he stated that Mr Vishwajit Rane who was inducted suddenly in the Goa Pradesh Congress Committee was denied a ticket and hence he resigned. This implied he rebelled against the party yet when he contested the elections and won the over 100 year old party bent backwards to appease him for his supports knowing full well that Mr Rane had no choice but to support a INC led government for he had already filed a defamation suit against the Leader of the Opposition Mr Manohar Parrikar and therefore giving him a Cabinet berth smacked of favouritism. Another individual sarcastically remarked that the INC is devoid of Chief Minister material MLA's and therefore the options other than Mr Rane were only BJP trained MLA's referring to Mr Ravi Sitaram Naik MLA Ponda who was the Deputy Chief Minister and the present Chief Minister Mr Digamber
[VascokarsUnited] MLA VICTORIA FERNANDES HOSPITALISED
While the Chief Minister rushed to New Delhi to get the blessings of the Congress President ms Sonia Gandhi on the distribution of loaves and fishes to her 12 disciples and also carried a brief note on the pitfalls of denying a Cabinet berth to MLA Santacruz Ms Victoria Fernandes; the still waters in the Opposition camp and those of the UGDP and SGF and the lone industrialist mine owner MLA of Sanvordem Sanguem Taluka leaves suspicion on the events that will unfold in the next few days. Meanwhile Ms Fernandes is under medical observation in a private room No 52 of the Vintage Hospital Panaji Tel No+91 832 6644401 as her condition had deteriorated early morning. Many women organisations irrespective of party affiliations felt a gross injustice was done Ms Fernandes and blamed Mr Kamat for aceding to the demands of Mr Vishwajit Rane Independent MLA Valpoi. if new comers were set aside why a preferntial treatment to Mr. Rane Why was Ms Victoria Fernandes denied a cabinet berth -- is it to deny her the right to know-how on Cabinet decisions especially in an era where decisions are consented to by circulation and not by discussions. Yet another supporter of Ms Fernandes questioned Mr Digu bab's claim of Parliamentary Secretary -- if this position is on par with Ministers and Mr Kamat was willing to part with one or two portfolios would it not be appropriate to give it to Mr Vishwajit Rane a new entrant? Either the Chief Minister has no guts and in that case he should hand over charge to another instead of blaming the High Command. The electorate of Goa who voted the INC to power as law makers have nothing to do with the High or Low command -- that is the internal matter of the Party -- but to the voters it is the CM who is unswerable. We do not need a puppet CM for Goa he added. Infact many believe that Mr Vishwajit Rane should in the face of criticism make the supreme sacrifice and offer the seat to Ms Fernandes -- a step which would earn him overnight the hearts of over 50% of the electorate that constitutes women in the State of Goa and also well meaning citizens one women activist felt. This writer interacted with a senior INC party executive and he candidly admitted that there was more in store once the portfolios are distributed. He blamed the coalition for this situation and argued that while a majority eluded the INC in Goa since the early 1990 the lucrative portfolios are the prime cause for dissatisfaction within the party rank and file. Yet another problem faced by local INC is the interference of Congress emissaries in Goa. How can these emissaries be trusted when they themselves have stakes in the State. For e.g they cited the case of Margaret Alva the AICC General Secretary who though rejected in her own state of Karnataka tries to behave like a Headmistress and interferes even in civic affairs as she did last time with the Margao Municipal Council to wrest it from the Opposition BJP. In fact the INC party in Goa would only be too happy if the Congress Presidents relieves her of the Goa Desk. Another INC partymen argued that it is time that the press act as OBSERVERS of these OSBSERVERS who venture into Goa actually with the intent of filling up their coffers or acting as FRONTMAN' to promote interests of business men from outside the State. The Monsoon session of the Goa Legislative Assembly begins on the 16th July and it is expected to be month long. Before that the Ministers many of whom are experienced will have to prepare themselves to answer starred and unstarred questions and also have the Budget passed. This may me difficult with infighting. The MLA's who have been left out without inclusion in the Cabinet are 1) Mr Agnel Fernandes Calangute INC, 2) Ms Victoria Fernandes Santa Cruz INC 3) Mr Francisco Silveira INC St Andre, 4) Mr Gurudas Gawas INC Pale, 5) Mr S G Satardekar Curchorem INC, 6) Mr Chandrakant B Kavlekar Quepem INC, Priol 7) Mr Mauvin Godinho INC Cortalim SUPPORTING PARTIES 8)Mr Anil Salgaocar Ind Sanvordem 9) Mr Nilikant Harlankar Tivim, NCP, 10) Mr Dipak Dhavalikar MGP If another three to four disgruntled MLA's of the INC get together after being dissatisfied with the portfolios in the days to come they could easily constitute two thirds of the total strenght of the INC and merge with either the SGF or the UGDP and form a coalition of sorts to run a non INC government. This is permitted under the 91st Constitution amendment. These and many other permutation and combinations are being worked out to ensure a GOAN CENTRIC government and not one dictated by the High Command in New Delhi. GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES, BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA) +91 98221 58584 (24 HRS) [EMAIL PROTECTED] Download prohibited? No problem. To chat from any browser without download, Go to http://in.messenger.yahoo.com/webmessengerpromo.php
[VascokarsUnited] AAM ADMI centric governance - in six months-CM
Today 1st July, 2007 was the turn of Madganvkars - Parishioners of Our Lady of Grace Church Margao to felicitate Digu Bab Shri Digamber Kamat on assuming the onerous office of CM of Goa. The poorly attended hour long function (11.20 a.m) held at Our Lady of Grace Church Hall Margao ---less than a hundred and fifty persons mostly women and children (coming after their cathechism classes) were treated to an impressive Indian costume attired performance of a prayer - candle dance as the inaugural item by students of Fatima Convent which received a thunderous applause for its presentation to perfection. The flowery speeches by Mr Nick Colaco and Ms Inez Cotta Carvalho in praise of achievements of Digu Bab ---who was seated on the dais with wife Ms Asha Kamat in tow over a) his attaining the stature of being the longest serving Minister for Power? in the country, b) the U turn the power sector in Goa has made in profitability --earning Rs 150 crores p.a, c) the Ana Fonte Spring Garden and d) his accessibility to the voters did attract some applause from the audience. It was however the speech of an young seminarian turned teacher now at a school in Sanvordem and a parishioner of Margao Mr Elliton J A Fernandes of Margao who left the CM dumbfounded though he managed a sarcastic smile. Mr Fernandes in his impeccable Konkani, in a written speech congratulated the CM on his assuming office but the fear of losing his seat and the political compulsions' which will decide his tenure - is a matter of concern he said. A four term MLA since 1994 Digu Bab would now as an elderly statesman preside over the destinies of not only Margao but the desitinies of fourteen lac odd people located in 3705 sq Kms of the State. Giving a point by point listing of the demands of Goans. GARBAGE (KOCHRO) - is littered all over in this beautiful state. He cited a case in point in the capital city near EDC complex -- what impression will it give those visiting the State? POWER (viz)Despite receiving 300 MW of power from Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh by the time it reaches Goa via Maharashtra and Karnataka we get a poor quality transmission of only 120 MW- why not we use our own Ocean and Solar energy resource? WATER (UDOK) despite being a rain drained State the Government announces in May this year a shortfall of 15% supply in availability of water-- but private tanker operators supply 1000 litres of water at Rs.300/- is this not confusing? TOURISM (poryotton) Confederation of Indian Industry (CII ) has stated that 80% of those employed in the hospitality industry are non Goans --then why build hotels that would usurp our land mortgage the lives of Goans to the nuances of Russian mafia drugs sleaze and sex he wondered. Would not the MOPA AIRPORT on becoming a reality relieve us of the scourge of commercially exploited tourism? EDUCATION (xikxonn)Under the centrally sponsored Sarva Sikhsa Abhiyan this year the school going students would be given a Rs.1000/- worth dictionary -- why indulge in this wasteful expenditure when an OXFORD ADVANCED LEARNERS dictionary with a CD is available for Rs.500/- Why extend the age of superannuation of teachers to sixty when most feel bored of teaching at fifty? would it not be worthwhile to access their suitability every two years and then retain those suitable? Money for school infrastructure is not directed towards the genuine requirements of latrines, benches school boards laboratories computers etc -- Inspectors of education department are kow-towed to appease the pliable schools in th distribution of funds-- would it not be worth to link it to performance in academics? There is a need to bring about changes in the medium of instruction in Konkani and his report needs to be perused he appealed to the CM. PLAYWRIGHT'S ACADEMY (Tiatr akademi) Digu Bab needs compliments for coming out with a cultural policy -- Would the Government now look into starting the tiatr akademi as promised and the opening of the Ravindra Bhavan at Fatorda EMPLOYMENT (Rozgar) --according to the Indian Labour Report 2006 there will be around 211 million unemployed in India and based on 2001 census in Goa 55.4% of unemployment will the CM pay atttention to this our grave concern. In his reply to the felicitations surprisingly in English, the CM made it clear that he never aspired for CM post -- having indulged in confabulations with the High Command observers he left for Ponda -- late night he was summoned back to Panaji and he was asked to shoulder the onerous responsibility. He assured the people that he believed in doing justice to whatever portfolio was entrusted to him. Be it the power sector which was in the red -- had turned a new leaf for all his policies were centred around the consumer as a CM he would now concentrate on aam admi the other CM -- common man-- therefore anything that would bring cheer on the face of a common would reflect the success of his government. In the power sector
[VascokarsUnited] SGF -FILES FOR DEPUTY SPEAKER 's OFFICE
Will the Deputy Speaker's post go to Mr. Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco -(the other Aleixo (Sequeira) is Power Minister) of the Save Goa Front the MLA of Curtorim on 16th July, 2007? This is a million dollar question. It will also decide the extent of support the the UGDP SGF combine have with the present dispensation. There are sixteen INC MLAs, three NCP one Independent Mr Vishwajit Rane, the other Independent Mr Anil V Salgaocar has doubtful loyalty towards the ruling combine. He surprisingly filed his nomination for the post of the Speaker with the support of the BJP, though earlier he had given his letter of support to the present ruling dispensation at the time of government formation on 8th June, 2007. Today the nomination for the post of Deputy Speaker was filed by Mr Lourenco with MLA Navelim Mr Churchill Alemao proposing his candidature duly supported by UGDP MLA of Taleigao Mr Antanasio (Babush) Monseratte. The ruling dispensation had decided in principle to accord the position of the Deputy Speaker to a non ruling party MLA and therefore it is not clear how the party would accomodate its MLA from Cortalim Mr Mauvin Godinho who was not given a berth in the Ministry but was tipped off for the Deputy Speaker's post. Meanwhile it is learnt that the UGDP would be deliberating on the prospects of the party merging with the Save Goa Front but retaining the symbol of TWO LEAVES -- a symbol which has an emotive appeal in the Velhas Conquistas --- which eventually decided the issue of retention of Union Territory status as against merger with Maharashtra at the unique Opinion Poll on 16th January, 1967 exactly over twenty years ago. It may be recalled that the SGF had been alloted free symbol this year as it was only a registered front but unrecognised. This status has been changed post election following their polling over 1/6th of the votes polled and declared valid. Though Mr Digamber Kamat the CM had sought to appease the four times MLA's and one new entrant of the NCP with Parliamentary Secretaries status, they would not hesitate to quit if offered Ministerial berths in the new permutation and combinations that is being worked out with themeeting of minds by the SGF and UGDP.\ The message seems to be loud and clear -- the national parties whether the BJP or the NCP or the INC needs to be given the boot --- Goans can be Masters of their own destiny -- The Patels the Alvas the Munde's need not to steer clear of goan politics and need not decide or dictate what is best for Goa and Goans. Goans have their own distinct identity both historically and culturally which distinguishes themselves from others in the rest of the country. This writer during his visit to several parts of the country was surprised to learn that it was the non Goans who were concerned that their identity is being usurped with the influx of non Goans in the state and upsetting the demographic composition of the State. They did not hesitate to forewarn this writer that influx of North Indians would be detrimental to this tiny state which is considered in their eyes as a cauldron of communal amity and unique east meets west symbiosis, which needs to be protected at any cost. This message has slowly but finally been etched in the Goan psyche -- as was reflected at the surprise crowds during the agitation against the Regional Plan 2011. Even the organisors who may claim credit for mobilising the crowds will recollect that they themselves were uncertain of the ground swell when they first deliberated on the agenda at the Caritas Hall at Panaji . Thus before the Golden Jubilee of our Independence on 19/12/2011 this dream of natives of Goa being the MASTERS of their own destiny needs to become a reality. For the moment those in tw3enty two Velhas Conquistas alone need to mobilise support for this reality as this is the real Goa (1510 to 1961 ) and not the Novas Conquistas (1763 to 1961 ) that is known world over. It is this area where the Catholics were a majority and gave the semblance of a Christian State as is believed today by rest of our countrymen like the North Eastern State -- seven sisters. Another surprise development English no doubt will be the language of the stomach for all Indians -- and Goans surely cannot be an exception as they have migrated overseas for well over a century unlike their country fellowmen. But following the over two years old agitation for Konkani in the Roman script -- it has finally got into the records of Goan Legislative Assembly history -when the Parliamentary Secretary Mr Francisco Silveira of St Andre read the oath of secrecy in Konkani in Roman script yesterday. This despite the fact that for all official purposes Konkani -- in devanagari script has been granted official status on 4th February, 1987 and NOT Konkani in Roman script. CM Mr Digamber Kamat would do well to ensure amendment of the Official language Act 1987 to either incorporate the word after
[VascokarsUnited] CHURCHILL MOVES AMENDMENT BILL TO OLA 1987
The next fortnight round beginning 16th July, 2007 upto 31st July, 2007 will be the 12 day second session of the Fifth Goa Legislative Assembly. According to discreet information obtained by this writer the ex CM ex Mormugao Parliamentary Constituency MP and present MLA Navelim Constituency, President of the Save Goa Front has tabled a private members bill to fulfill one of the pledges made to the public in their manifesto viz grant of official recognition to Konkani in Roman script. This is intended to be done by bringing about an amendment to the Goa Daman % Diu Official Language Act 1987 by amending clause 2(a) to include the words /Roman alongside Devanagari script. Though the Bill is expected to come up on 20th July, 2007 (Friday) or 27th July, 2007 Friday ---days alloted for Private members Bill it remains to be seen how the INC NCP MGP Independents Government reacts to this amendment. The Bill will also create a ruckus among MLA's from the Velhas Conquistas especially the seven Catholic MLA;s of the INC viz; Agnelo Fernandes Calangute, Smt. Victoria R. Fernandes St. Cruz, Francisco Silveira St.Andre, Mauvin Godinho, Cortalim , Aleixo Sequeira Loutolim Filipe N Rodrigues Velim Joaquim Braz Alemao Cuncolim two of the NCP viz Francisco X. Pacheco Benaulim Jose Philip D'souza Vasco-da-Gama, and one of the BJP Adv. Francisco D' Souza Mapusa excluding the SGF Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco Curtorim and UGDP Atanasio Monserrate Taleigao who have pledged their support for the amendment. Thus with 13 Catholic MLAs who ought to have had no difficulty in doing justice to the Catholic community it is a sad commentary that most of them fight shy of placing Konkani Mai on the pedestal. It may be noted that if only Konkani in diverse scripts all over and in Devanagari and Roman are given support the Goans can flourish and be masters of their own land. It is obvious that despite the CM Mr Digamber Kamat being non committal on the issue of official recognition to Konkani in Roman script the ruling coalition will be polarised on communal lines with the MGP MLA's both brothers Deepak and Sudin Dhavalikars and also Independent MLA Mr Anil V Salgaocar opposing the amendment. Obviously the six Hindu Brahmins in the Goa Legislative Assembly have reason to oppose the same directly or clandestinely for they are a minority of just 3 % in the State and retaining the monopoly of Konkani in Devanagari ensures their survival economically and socially. Though in the fourth legislative Assembly the BJP headed by Mr Manohar Parrikar has agreed niether to oppose nor support the amendment but add a rider that Marathi too should be given official recognition, it is not known what stand the BJP may take to the SGF amendment Bill. The INC think thank headed by Mr Uday L Bhembre ex Independent Margao is strongly opposed to any amendment to the Bill of 1987 giving official recognition to Konkani in Roman script. He had scuttled all moves by the ROMI LIPI ACTION FRONT spearheading the two year long agitation and even ensured that this demand was not included in the INC manifesto. It was the Save Goa Front and the UGDP MLA of Taleigao Mr Antanasio Monseratte who openly pledged support for this issue even before the elections. Meanwhile todays meeting of the UGDP which witnessed a strong lobbying for and against the proposal for merger / maintaining the status quo eventually decided to constitute a committee to work out the modalities. The Taleigao MLA Mr Antanasio (Babush) Monseratte UGDP the ex MLA Cortalim Mr Mathany Saldanha were present. The only fear that most of the partymen hold is that with Mr Churchill changing parties to suit his whims and fancies -- may eventually merge the SGF with the INC at a later stage. These apprehensions are valid given Mr Alemao's past political career. However Mr Alemao knows that he is a crowd puller unlike any of the members of the UGDP and can utilise his brawn for political survival. Mr Monseratte on the other hand has all the finances at his disposal to do and undo a political party or contest and re-contest elections. Moreover like it or not Mr Monseratte is a man known to keep his word. While Mr Radharao Gracias has been the most eloquent speaker of the UGDP with his vitriolic comments his understanding of regional state and national politics and the nitty gritty of todays politics cannot be denied. He has however expressed the view to this writer on several ocassions that unity of regional forces is to the interests of Goa and Goans. The lame duck sabotaging the merger prospects is Adv. Anacleto Viegas the Perry Mason of Goa a leading criminal lawyer who does not trust Mr Alemao's integrity and rightly so given his party hopping attitude. But Goa and Goans interests is expected to pave the way for some realistic understanding in the days to come. GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES, BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA) +91 98221 58584
[VascokarsUnited] Parliamentary Secretary - VICTORIA out of station?
Mystery surrounds the sudden shifting of Ms Victoria Fernandes MLA Santa Cruz and Parliamentary Secretary out of Goa reportedly for a cursory medical check up Given that the crucial Budget session commences tommorrow the rumour mill was agog. Incidentally the Presidential candidate Ms Pratibha Patil was slated to have a brief sojourn with the Goa Members of the Legislative Assembly to canvass support for her election. Ms Margaret Alva the General Secretary AICC and in-charge Goa Desk besides Mr Govindrao Adik the Observer for the Presidential elections for Goa was expected to meet the MLA's. One reason for the sudden disappearance of Ms Fernandes is apparently to register her protest for the denial of Ministerial berth to her. She has openly held Ms Alva responsible for misleading the High Command. Another reason apparently for her non reconcialiatory attitude despite being given the Parliamentary Secretary post and the Chairmanship of KTCL is that in the eyes of the people of Goa she has lost sympathy after having excepted these posts. During her fast she herself had stated that she would except nothing short of a Cabinet post or would be reconciled to merely remaining a watch dog MLA. No doubt she claims that the voters of her Constitutency asked her to accept these posts. But despite all this she has lost the sympathy of the masses. There are also unconfirmed reports that she broke bread with her bete noire Mr Antanasio (Babush) Monseratte some time ago. Ms Fernandes was not available for comment on this score when this writer contacted her telephonically at her residence late evening. The major private bill coming up is the grant of official language status to Konkani in Roman script by way of an amendment. This is the Bill introduced by Mr Churchill Alemao. While the Hindu Bahujan Samaj have never opposed official status to Konkani in Roman script whenever a move is made for official status to Konkani in Roman script they demand official status for Marathi. As a matter of fact though politically this seems to be the demand --- the Hindu Bahujan Samaj (non Hindu Brahmins) are aware that grant of such a status to Marathi will easily open the flood gates for Maharashtrians to vie for jobs with Hindu Bahujan Samaj aspirants from Goa. They have thus far been at the receiving end. For the Catholics most in the Velhas Conquistas have their eyes over seas and hence the need for official recognition to Konkani is only to fulfill their legitimate right -- because as of now nowhere does Konkani in Roman script enjoy official status, and hence gets only doles from the Government. With the number game there could be many surprises this week. There are rumours that a chunk who had not taken kindly to Mr Parrikar's leadership may revolt. This is a remote possibility. However what is more threatening to the ruling INC coalition is that if Ms Fernandes stays away on health grounds notwithstanding the whip issued and another Indpendent Mr Anil Salgaocar who has been dilly dallying on the support to the Government (he filed his nomination for the Speakers post backed by the BJP) the Government could be in a dilema. Manohar T. Azgaonkar Dhargalim Agnelo Fernandes Calangute Dayanand G. Narvekar AldonaVictoria R. Fernandes St. Cruz Francis SilveiraPandurang Madkaikar Cumbarjua Gurudas Prabhakar Gauns Pale Pratapsingh Raoji Rane Poriem Ravi Sitaram Naik Ponda Mauvin Godinho Cortalim Aleixo Sequeira Loutolim Digambar Kamat Margao Filipe N Rodrigues Velim Joaquim Braz Alemao CuncolimShyam Satardekar Curchorem Chandrakant R. Kavlekar Quepem---INC (16) Nilkanth Halarnkar Tivim Jose Philip D'souza VascodaGama Francisco X. Pacheco Benaulim ---NCP (3) Sudin Dhavalikar Madkai Dipak Dhavalikar PriolMGP (2) Vishwajit Rane Valpoi Independent (1) Anil Vasudev Salgaonkar Sanvordem Independent (1) Atanasio Monserrate Taleigao (1) Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco Curtorim Churchill Alemao Navelim SGF (2) Laxmikant Y. Parsekar Mandrem, Dayanand Raghunath Sopte Pernem Adv. Francisco D' Souza Mapusa Dayanand R. Mandrekar Siolim Dilip Dnyaneshwar Parulekar Saligao Manohar Parrikar Panjim Rajesh Patnekar Bicholim Anant V Shet Mayem Mahadev Naik Shiroda Milind Sagun Naik Mormugao Vasudeo M. Gaonkar Sanguem Vijay A. Pai Khot Canacona Ramesh Bombo Tawadkar Poinguinim Shri. Damodar G. Naik Fatorda - BJP (14) Whichever way one looks at the present numbers -- frustration within the INC rank and file and the NCP and MGP as well could rock the boat for Mr Digamber Kamat the surprise CM who has completed a little over a month and a week as CM but is yet to come to grips with the administration. Another interesting issue is the questions to be raised by Mr Churchill Alemao the SGF MLA Navelim relating to the Regional Plan. Currently the portfolio is held by the Chief Minister Mr Kamat. Mr Kamat has ensured that the TCP and the Revenue
[VascokarsUnited] GOA DEMOCRATIC ALLIANCE IN NEW DELHI
In an interesting development, at the Rashtrapati Bhavan New Delhi today forenonn when the BJP President Mr Rajnath Singh and others presented the lone women member Ms Victoria Fernandes alongwith others before the Madam President Ms Pratibha Patil, the two vibed easily as several similarities came to the fore. Both the 72 year old Madam President and 72 year old Ms Victoria Fernandes were in active politics in the early sixties during the tenure of Maharashtra Chief Minister late Mr Y B Chavan and Chief Minister late Dayanand Bandodkar of the then Union Territory of Goa Daman Diu . Madam President too was a Cabinet Minister in the Maharashtra Government and was aware of the plebiscite held in Goa -- Opinion Poll 1967 where Ms Victoria Fernandes staged a valiant struggle alongwith others to retain UT status for Goa Daman Diu. While Madam President was backed to the hilt for the top post with the view of hoisting the first women President in India 60 years after Independence, the opposite treatment was meted to Ms Fernandes by the INC High Command in Goa. With the audio visual media giving the Goa Democratic Alliance top footage in their news channel to expose the reality of the INC led coalition defeat on Friday, 2007 on the floor of the House the Governor did not hesitate to ask for a test of strenght on the floor of the House on Monday, 30th July 2007. None of the Goa Democratic Alliance members stayed in the Goa Sadan at New Delhi but instead were kept in a secluded resort to avoid poaching by INC. In the meanwhile in Goa the INC MLA's are in furious mood over the Friday developments and there are many who have blamed the Speaker Mr Pratapsing Raoji Rane for failing to act and avert the disaster. There are fears that except the two of Save Goa Front Mr Churchill Alemao of Navelim and Mr Aleixo Lourence of Curtorim and MLA Fatorda Mr Damodar Naik who will control the developmental activities in 30 Village Panchayats and two Municipalities of Cuncolim and Margao will be laughing their way out at this scenario. This evening there were unconfirmed reports that once all efforts at winning some MLAs to save the INC led Government the other Independent Mr Vishwajit Rane may lend support to the Goa Democratic Alliance. Ofcourse Mr Digamber Kamat may also tender his resignation instead of facing defeat on the floor of the Assembly. He is on record saying that it was the aam aadmi common man not the CM that will suffer. following his defeat. He repeats ad nauseaum that he was a surprise choice of the High Command and if dictated to resign he will abide by their dictates. On the allotment of portfolios he puts the blame on the High Command and specially Ms Margaret Alva who has muddled up at last minute the list submitted by him. Would he then go down as a martyr who was compelled to make the supreme sacrifice because of the highandedness of the High Command only his voters will tell at the next hustings. Meanwhile in a surprise development the Government issued a public notice cancelling all conversions made on the revised Regional Plan 2011 and vowed to revert to the old Plan 2001 from 10th August, 2006. There is also an apprehension that the first step of the new Government when it takes office is to amend the Official language Act 1987 and hence the Catholics for Konkani Devanagari a group propped up by a section of the Saraswat Hindu Brahmins have got some Catholic Bamonn priest viz Fr Mousinho Athaide to come out with statements warning of a backlash if Konkani in Roman script was granted official status. This much of hypocricy of Cristao Brethren who eat drink and dine ---Romi lipi in their daily life. GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES, BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA) +91 98221 58584 (24 HRS) [EMAIL PROTECTED] Do you get hundreds of mails everyday? Delete none. Go to http://in.rd.yahoo.com/tagline_mail_9/*https://edit.india.yahoo.com/config/eval_register
[VascokarsUnited] SPEAKER SALVAGES GOVT- UNCONSTITUTIONALLY
In an interesting development as per information received by this writer fron New Delhi --- late evening , the Home Ministry has called upon the Governor Mr S C Jamir to submit a report on the conduct of business on the floor of the House in the Goa Legislative Assembly today. It may be recalled that this afternoon at two p.m. halfan Hour before the House was to assemble for the floor test ---the Speaker proceeded against the two MGP MLA's Mr Sudin Dhavalikar and Deepak Dhavlikar and passed an ---interim order--- refraining them from voting today. This is without giving due notice and refusal to see the proceedings recorded in the minute book; The next hearing is slated for 13th August, 2007 b)In a similar order the Speaker disqualified the MLA SantaCruz for defying the whip on two earlier ocassions in the current assembly. However what is surprising that Mr Rane refused to meet her apparently to avoid her from tendering her formal resignation as MLA in the hope that she would come back as the prodigal daughter It may be noted that todays action of the Speaker was nothing short of sweet revenge against the Dhavalikar brothers and Ms Fernandes to save his son -- who indeed ought to have been discarded by the INC for having acting as a rebel resigning from the Party contesting the elections as an Independent and been awarded by a Ministerial portfolio just because he happens to be the son of the Speaker and enjoys the confidence of the AICC General Secretary Goa Desk Ms Margaret Alva. The Governor is reported to have taken cognizance of todays development wherein after the Opposition walked out in protest against the Speaker in one go himself introducing the demands and passage of the finance Bill on the same day and finally adjourning the House sine die. It was clear that todays Business was to decide on whether the Government of Mr Kamat has the support of the MLA's to run the Government and none other. Ordinarily the Government lost its majority on 26th Thursday when the Speaker deliberately adjourned the House even thought the Chief Minister had moved moved for leave to introduce The Goa Infrastructure (Amendment) Bill, 2007. Failure to ensure passage of these demands in itself indicated that the Government did not have the numbers to pass the demand and it was the Speaker Mr Pratapsing Raoji Rane who bailed the Government and bought time. Even assuming the pandemonium created by the ruling MLA's Mr Filipe Neri Rodrigues and Mr Manohar Azgaonkar the next day was reserved for the private members Bill and an important private memebers Bill was to come up ---yet the Government was sure that the ruling members specially the Catholic MLAs of the NCP and the INC would have to save embarrasing moments or the Government was to give its statement on the grant of official status to Konkani in Roman script if it did not desire to accept the bill tabled by Mr Churchill Alemao MLA Navelim. Here too the Speaker bailed out the Government. Indeed Mr Kamat while passing the demands for Official Language made a statement that he was not in favour of amending the official language Bill of 1987 and this was in tune with the demand of the majority of the Saraswat Brahmin lobby who Mr Kamat sought to appease. Unfortunately while the INC labelled the Parrikar Government removal of the then Independent MLA Filipe Neri Rodrigues as murder of democracy today's act of the Government to save the Kamat government is clearly a mockery and murder of the conduct of business of the House . All eyes are now riverted on the Governor who during the 2nd February, 2005 had not taken too kindly of Mr Parrikars Act and invited Mr Pratapsing Raoji Rane to form the Government will the Governor do the same this time round now that the House has just 18 members INC 15 and NCP 3 besides Mr Vishwajit Rane (incidentally junior Rane a Kshatriya is married to the Timblos (Saraswat Brahmin family) while the other Independent MLA Sanvordem Mr Anil Salgaocar (mine owner industrialist is stated to have a axe to grind with the Timblos) who has extended his support to BJP 14 MLAs SGF 2 and UGDP 1 makes it 18 members. However in all future proceedings it will be the casting vote of the Speaker which will come into play and thus a situation has been created by which Mr Pratapsing Raoji Rane will be the defacto Chief Minister while Mr Digamber Kamat a puppet CM -- to used to be projected as an icon of the aam aadmi Meanwhile now that the budget has been passed cutting short tommorrows proceedings attempts are being made to get Mr Aleixo Lourenco of the Save Goa Front into the INC. The Opposition too has not rested and will in the coming days be able to seek justice for the ill doings of the INC combine. Now that the Budget has been passed the Kamat will go on a spree of inuagurations release huge funds so that the INC NCP MLA's can recover their election investments and this can go on until the next session due only in late
[VascokarsUnited] LOOK EAST - more Casinos in Goa
There is no doubt that vox populi from the villages of Cavelossim, Carmona, Betul, Ambelim, Velim in Salcete, Goa, will prevail. The passenger catamaran re-christened m.v. Leela now moored at the Cutbona fisheries jetty, Salcete Goa and intended to be used as a casino by Hotel Leela Venture Ltd Cavelossim Mobor Salcete Goa will eventually have to go to its offshore site 12 nautical miles into the Arabian sea and not stay in rivers. This is notwithstanding the obvious threats by the Management of Hotel Leela Venture Ltd Mobor Cavelossim Salcete Goa to stake claims for compensation from the Government for doing a volte face on its earlier policy formulated to enhance the tourisminfrastructure --in Goa. Incidentally a source in Western Australia recently informed this writer, that the vessel christened m.v. Leela could be a high speed passenger catamaran of length: 40.1 metres capacity: 216 pax Speed: 27 knots built by Austal, Western Australia and delivered in 1991 to their earlier client J N Cruises Pte Ltd Singapore. J N Cruises has since ceased operations in 1998. Apparently this passenger catamaran has now found its way into the Leela's books of accounts in 2003 -2004 (?) Interestingly another top official of the Goa Government disclosed to this writer off the records that the Government was pursuing clandestinely a Las Vegas casino policy . Under this plan of action comceptualised during the tenure of Mr Luizinho Faleiro the ex CM and ex MLA of Goa each of the five and seven starred hotel in this tiny State could set up a casino off shore . This is to avoid tempation by local to get into the casino habit if the same is on shore. One such casino the Caravella belonging to M/s Ramada Hotels found its operations successful off Panaji in the River Mandovi despite initial protests by some women organisations headed by Ms Sabina Martins and others. They had then objected to the amendment effected by the Indian National Congress regime to the Goa Gambling Act 1976 allowing for the setting up of casinos . They had also protested the casino culture in the state for fear of the locals indulging in prostitution, emergence of paedophiles ruination of families and other associated ills. But all this notwithstanding sources within the offshore casino disclosed that elected representatives police officials were favourites at the casinos on shore / off shore. (Gambling ofcourse is as old as the worlds oldest profession -- prostitution and there are no immediate indications that these two will beseige humankind for eternity and Goa and Goans are not exception to these viceremember godgodo tabla) Eventually this meant that the three prominent rivers in the State Zuari, Mandovi, and Sal could eventually allow for others to follow suit. If there is no public outcry from environmentalist the plan envisaged extending off shore casinos to other rivers like Talpona, etc. Another source who spoke to this writer today informed that the Salgaocars too who own the Goa Marriot Resort at Miramar Tiswadi have ventured into this business and have plans to run a casino 1200 pax capacity? . They have already acquired a floating casino from Argosys ( a world famous casino gaming Inc) in North America for Rs 20 crores and have got into the act of re modification to the vessel with investments to the tune of some crores at a private shipyard in Mormugao Harbour. The vessel when ready for operations will be re-christened Boa Sorte in Portuguese ( literally translated to mean Good Lottery ). However now with the voice of protests and threats to the mv Leela at Cutbona/ Mobor the investors in the casino trade have to think twice. A retired official, a seemingly knowledgeable authority on marine and environmental matters pointed out to this writer that the International Maritime Organisation have upgraded their environment concerns owing the dismal picture on the prospects of global warnings and continued violations in the oceans. It is discreetly learnt that following the grounding of the mv River Princess in June 2000 and tar balls found on the shores of Goa's 105 kms coastline they have become sensitive to violations of IMO regulations and the issue of the present casino too seems to received their attention for investigation early August 2007 through the local office in India at Dehradun UP North India. This is notwithstanding the fact that an influential official of the Hotel Leela Ventura Ltd one Brigadier (Retd ) Shakti Prasad is at the helm of affairs overseeing the interests of the continued stay of the passenger catamaran at Mobor despite public outcry. Meanwhile top officials in the Archdiocese of Goa Daman were shocked to learn that more casinos would be licenced in Goa, despite their strong opposition on the grounds of this gaming being not in tune with the moral fabric of the state. What was perhaps shocking as disclosed to this writer by a Jesuit priest, was that while
[VascokarsUnited] TAPOT vo CHIMTO -- LOK SABHA bye election
While CM Digamber Kamat of the INC led coalition in Goa has appealed to the over 3 lakhs voters of 2 Lok Sabha Mormugao Parliamentary Constituency to give a befitting slap tapot (read defeat) to the BJP in the 31st October 2007 bye poll; the ex CM and present Leader of the Opposition (BJP), Mr Manohar Parrikar has appealed to the voters to give good pinch chimto kad ( read lower margin) to the INC to keep it in check over its growing misdeeds. The disillusioned voters are in a dilemma. They have only two options a) abstain from voting or b) chose between the lesser evil. The INC coalition candidate Mr Francisco Sardinha is a teacher turned veteran politician an ex CM ex MP who was defeated in the June 2007 elections from Curtorim Assembly Constituency and yet was appointed as the President of the Goa Pradesh Congress Committee. Not any longer an INC loyalist having quit the party once despite claiming to be a loyal soldier of the INC. The BJP candidate Dr Wilfred Mesquita a physician of repute, an ex Minister and ex MLA from Vasco-da-Gama. He recently quit the SGF peeved by the acts of its President Mr Churchill Alemao, hobnobbing with the INC which he quit, but kept vying for a ticket for his daughter Ms Valanka allegedly compromising the seven point demand of the SGF. Dr Mequita overnight switched from MGP to INC and hence wears the label of defector. For the current LS elections Mr Sardinha stands for a)two Special Economic Zones one in North Goa District and the other in South Goa District ; (incidentally Ponda though in Mormugao Parliamentary Constituency is in North Goa District ) b) DABOLIM a must MOPA too --for posterity 20 years later ; c) six lane highway a must where impossible a four lane road c) traditional bull fights should be re-introduced circumventing the Court orders a legislation will do d) BJP introduced RP 2011, INC inherited it,and people rejected it hence now he is for a transparent RP 2021 e) will oppose diversion of waters from Mandovi (Mhadei) river in Supreme Court. f)remove restrictions on playing of music beyond 10 p.m. in tune with the State culture and international tourist destination. While Dr Mesquita stands for a) No to SEZ s as they are exclusive enclaves like foreign territory local laws inapplicable warns that it will result in in migration and change demographic composition of the State reducing Goans to a miniscule population. b) restoration of bull fight impossible as it runs contrary to the letter and spirit eshrined in the Constitution prevention of cruelty to animals d) No two Air Traffic Controls can exist within 75 kms hence MOPA never DABOLIM forever; e) four lane road is ideal f) 123-agreement not acceptable why an arbitration clause for China, Japan different from that of India's we are guided by the Hyde Act which is detrimental to us. The Cristao Bamonn dominated Archdiocese of Goa and Daman has expectedly remained a mute spectator ( since both candidates are Cristao Bamonns:) during the campaign period. The Church ideally believes that they can guide the electorate to vote for honest candidates who would work for the welfare of the society. In giving their piece of advice they also believe that -priests are citizens first, and priesthood merely their vocation That perhaps explain the role of Fr Conceicao D Silva of Mandur a Cristao non Bamonn liberal participation in the campaign, alongwith another backing the INC candidate. Other priests have indirectly appealed to the voters to come out in large numbers a message --apparently designed to arrest the inevitable low turn out expected --seeing the dwindling turn out of people at almost all the INC election campaigns. Local issue of official language status to Konkani in Roman script a State subject was not hyped for its emotive effect on polls; even though this seat is the bastion of the Catholics ---all eight seats in Salcete taluka besides the three in Mormugao talukas are Catholic dominated . The other ten seats; four seats in Ponda , two in Canacona, two in Sanguem , two in Quepem talukas are Hindu dominated. The bye elections were caused due to the resignation on 8th May, 2007 of Mr Churchill Alemao then INC MP and present President of Save Goa Front and Minister for PWD for personal reasons. Many blame him for this costly adventure which has put an unncessary burden on the tax payer for his and his families benefit. At the Centre the UPA Government is toying with the idea of going in for a midterm poll and it has every reason to make a pretence of doing so; only to get its allies the Communists to remove the impediments created to prevent finalising the 123 agreement with US nuclear deal. But once the deal is struck and if in Gujarat BJP is shown the door -- the latest Tehelka expose on the GUJARAT RIOTS has come as a dampner to the BJP enthusiasm in Gujarat and Goa ---the INC will have every
[VascokarsUnited] LOWEST TURNOUT EVER - bye -elections
It was an election with a difference. Perhaps for the first time in Goas electoral history beginning 1962 when Goans voted post liberation for the Village Panchayats in Goa the turnout was dismal. Just 36.2 % Blame it on several things a) disillusionment of the voters over the political sommersaults of the elected representatives or b) Goa Defacement of Property Act which literally ensured that there were no banners posters and nothing to reveal to the eye of an election seen in public places; d) then there was the delayed notification of the Government of Goa announcing only as late as 25th October, 2007 vide Gazette notification of a public holiday to the whole state; but later a confusion of sorts the paid public holiday was sought to be modified only to cover establishments in South Goa and to keep workers in industrial establishments of the Government out of the purview of the paid holiday which was believed to have been turned down by the Chief Minister who holds the industry portfolio but only as late on the afternoon of eve of polling day. e) considering that both candidates were Cristao Bamonns they are not known to spend funds and many say they would opt to stash away electoral funds for their winter forays. Today majority of the shops and commercial establishments remained open , public undertook their daily chores without any hitch, private bus transport was regular. There were no semblance of a polling day . There were few tables in the twenty one assembly constituencies, there were just one or none manning the tables mostly youth below 18 to twenty years and some women. Moreover with children and students on Dipawali (8th 9th November)vacations the enthusiasm was low. Even though today was the 23rd death aniversary of late Smt Indira Gandhi there was not much enthusiasm among the voters to re-dedicate the day for her unfinished tasks. When this writer toured nearly the entire constituency since morning there were no Qs seen at the polling booths . One veteran voter who openly declared his vote for Sardinha Bab not out of any love for him but for the love of the symbol HAND said that the elections to the Village Panchayat had registered a much better turn out. In places like Mollem there were no crowds of women .. as is normally the case in the afternoons when most women prefer to work after their daily chores. In Priol Sanguem and Canacona there was a little improvement and to some extent in Quepem so also in the Benaulim Navelim Assembly Constituency but the voters preferred to keep their choice of candidates in close confidants putting the pollsters in a quizzical situation to predict the outcome. According to the officials there were enrolled this time round 5,60,284 voters with males outnumbering the females this time, and as obvious Ponda and Poinguinim accounted for the largest 37 thousand odd voters and 16, 500 odd voters respectively. There were Electronic Voting Machines pressed in use at all the 590 polling booths. Electoral Photo Identity cards were a must to all those possessing the same . As ususal there were several complaints of cases where the voter possessed the EPI card but found his name missing on the electoral roll in other cases the names were missing from the rolls . This time round the candidates of the INC and the BJP had issued computerized voters card and this helped the voters to identify the polling booths without having to seek assistance at the voting tables kept well beyond the polling booth. Many of the booth committee members boycotted the polling booths as they were not provided the necessary funds for the elections.. It may be noted that in Goa the Assembly election could easily cost a candidate one to two crores given that he has to provide for snacks , food , fuel hire of vehicles transportation posters banners sound system pandal chairs refreshments (hard and soft drinks ) from 13th to 31st October, 2007 . But on the day of voting money is crucial pulling the voters to the ballot is a hazardous task when no emotive issues are involved and money alone i s the test for winnability in such situations. Even though SEZ was being hyped as the emotive issues for Goans to think twice while casting their vote many did not take kindly to this appeal only to those in South Goa. Why not involve the people in North as well was the general feeling of the voters and moreover the subject was left to the State Governments to dabble in as they are required to provide the land for the same.Hence many of the booth committee members played a poor role on the polling day. When this writer spoke to the Chief Electoral Officer Mr Ramesh Negi - 9822708273 late evening he confirmed that the polling figures were around 35 to 36% as collating of the ballot data was still under way After the close of polling this writer witnessed signs of jubilation at the BJP camp office in Margao with each of the booth Managers claiming
[VascokarsUnited] GOA LIBERATION insights too on Azadi Express
The Azadi Express train arrived at the Vasco-da-Gama Railway Station Goa yesterday morning. The 12 bogie comparments of the train provides through the audio and visual media exhibits relating to The First War of Independence 1857, 1907 the Birth Year of Shaheed Bhagat Singh 1947 Indian Independence 2007 commemoration of these anniversaries. One gets a close look at the Indian Map as it existed in 1857 the over 550 princely states the mutinees, the arrival of the British in India, Lord Macaulays agenda, for the entrenching British rule in India. The various Governor Generals that ruled India the first Indian National Congress meet in 1885 the first constituent Assembly in June 1946. It moves beyond the Independence and down to the 1974 Pokharan nuclear test followed by the great famine of 1964 the nationalisation of Banks in 1969 Indira Gandhi's 'garibi hatao 1971 etc The policy of Liberalisation and other achievements. The Bhakra Nangal Dam. The garibi rath train module introduced by the present Union Minister for Railways Mr Laloo Prasad Yadav also finds a place of prominence. Mahatma Gandhi's era and contribution to the freedom struggle is another feature. Interesting books on freedom struggle and khadi garments and products like honey incense sticks are also for sale at the end compartment . It takes almost 45 minutes to cover the entire twelve bogies but a must visit for every Goan -- Exit The Azadi Express began its journey from 28th September, 2007 and will move around the country until 15th May, 2008. The crowd of curious onlookers include a large number of children who are presently enjoying their Xmas vacations. When this writer met some of the parents and children in the train this evening at 1615 hrs they expressed the desire that the train should have also been kept at Margao Railway station for the benefit of people from the South and East of Goa. They recollect a similar opportunity where the science exhibition train was stationed at Margao and received a record crowd some years ago. One very interesting facet of the exhibition was large photographs placed outside the Entry point of the exhibition which speaks of the struggle for Liberation of Goa from the erstwhile 451 years of Portuguese rule. Photographs of Dr Ram Lohia Maidan Dr Tristao Braganza Cunha. The historic meet at Lohia Maidan on 18th June 1946 the riots that followed. A message from Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru eulogising the role of Dr T B Cunha described aptly as the Father of Goan nationalism dated 13.8.1960. Then the Instrument of Surrender signed by the last Governor General of State of India which states General Manuel Antonio Vassalo Silva Chief Commandant of Armed Forces of State of Portugal ---offer unconditional surrender of Armed forces of Goa in my capacity of Chief Commandant Goa at 2030 of 19th December, 1961 sd General Manuel Antonio Vassalo Silva. It would be worthwhile if the Government of Goa obtains a fascimile copy of the above instrument for our records. There is an air plane F-BIAO - with a signage Portugal Go Home showing some Portuguese armed forces in military fatigues bidding farewell to Goa from the Dabolim Airfield. The final picture of surrender shows the Governor General Vassalo Silva at a Prisoners of War Camp in conversation with General Thapar of the Indian Army. The surrender shows Governor General Silva calm and composed. It is certain that in the days to come there will be much more visitors especially children who need to be inculcated the spirit of nationalism and the freedom struggle with Mangal Pandey Shaheed Bhagat Singh etc. One can easily conclude that the influence of western concepts was intended by Lord Macaulay to disintegrete our great land its culture and social milieu for the British Empire knew too well that only a divide and rule policy could help them establish their reign in the country for nearly two hundred years. This he suggested in a note put up to the Crown in England having travessed the lenght and breadth of the country and studying the ground reality. The Chief Minister of Goa Mr Digamber Kamat and the Governor of Goa could use their good offices with the Indian Railways to have the Azadi Express in Margao Railway Station -- this would be a great boon for children. from the Azadi Express Camp Vasco-da-Gama GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES, BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA) +91 98221 58584 (24 HRS) [EMAIL PROTECTED] Do you get hundreds of mails everyday? Delete none. Go to http://in.rd.yahoo.com/tagline_mail_9/*https://edit.india.yahoo.com/config/eval_register
[VascokarsUnited] GOA'S NEW YEARS REVELRY - DOUBTFUL?
During Yuletide coastal Goa would otherwise witness huge contingents of desi and videshi local and foreign tourists in Goa but this time round Goans heaved a sigh of relief from the madding crowds. There were several reasons attributed to this a) the exhorbitant board and lodge rates which now essentially eye the charter flights ( read high spending tourists ) b) the garbage litter all over which causes a scare with health conscience tourists videshi c) the extortion by transporters of any kind and d) the extortion by some traffic policemen almost at every nook and corner and at odd times too. It must be remembered that a planned itinery for visits to the State by foreigners take atleast over three months of preparation i) obtaining leave ii) visa formalities iii) hotel bookings and anciliary sight seeing sojourn .. For locals the time limit is shorter as many prefer to drive down to Goa and bask in open fields under the skies ... that's a lot of savings. This time round the political atmosphere was not all too pleasant ever since the formation of the Government on 7th June, 2007 then there was that sudden outburst on the IT Habitat which sent shock waves to many given the extensive cover it received on the national and international audio visual media. There was also the anti Special Economic Zones agitations with various political combinations and NGO's extending support to do away with all the 18 SEZ's. Be it Keri, Verna, Sancoale Quitol Quepem etc the people anger was palpable and it became a hot issue for the politicians --viz; i) those disgruntled groupings from within the the present ruling dispensation --a coalition of sorts all waiting to don the CM 's mantle and ii) those in the opposition waiting for the opportunity for the ruling dispensation to fall under the weight of their own contradictions and then work out new permutation and combinations to seize power. Amidst this high drama of emotive issues there were two large gatherings which were witnessed in Margao the CM's Mr Digambar Kamat constitutency and the other in the constituency of his bete noire Mr. Manohar Parrikar. But the immediate apprehension for tensions in this festive season was the sound trashing that members of the Youth Congress received from some unknown persons (at the time of writing this report ) as they staged a counter parade before the MLA Taleigao Mr Antanasio (Babush ) Monserates palatial bungalow near St Inez Church. The Youth Congress was supporting the setting up of the IT habitat which infact no one opposes but apparently they missed the wood off the trees when they failed to see opposition from MLA Taleigao to the IT habitat being actually being turned to become a realators jugglery and allegations of Mr Dayanand Narvekar the Minister for IT favouring his relatives to benefit from the allotments of sites. While two cases have been filed against the IT Minister a similar case was being file against those unknown persons that have indulged in physical violence to the Youth Congress members. Ironically the son of Mr Ramakant Khalap ex INC MLA Mandrem was one of the injured. In this heated atmosphere Goans have not taken too kindly to the earlier Regional Plan 2011 and now the 18 SEZ's. Their annoyance is further aggravated due to the fact that the CM on the one hand has been preaching and professing to help the aam aadmi. His lip sympathy runs contrary to ground realities and now citizens are beginning to believe his tall claims are all a bluff. No doubt the CM has made it clear that he takes orders from his High Command therefore he clearly tries to absolve himself for the non deliverance even after over six months in power. What annoys the peaceloving citizens of Goa too according to many citizens this writer spoke to is that on hot issues like SEZ he claims to be studying the pros and cons at leisure even though the Nandigram West Bengal issue is a hot case study which any school going child would be able to write an essay on. To add to all this the Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh has been invited tommorrow 27th December, 2007 to launch the broad band network in Goa and also attend the convocation the next day. Finally the ultimatum issued by the agitationists against the SEZ's IT Retreats Habitats the casino etc have now reached the boiling point and therefore obviously the tourists were advised against staying in the State for the New Years revelry as a discontent lot of Goans could obviously not be expected to leap into the New Year 2008 with threats to their land holdings. With several political decisions awaited one relating to the Dhavalikar brothers and the forthcoming short duration Assembly session on 10th January, 2008 for those waiting to pin down the government for non governance this is time opportune as the Indian National Congress is at its lowest ebb given their dismal performance despite their much hyped propoganda in Gujarat. Unfortunately, criminal cases have been
[VascokarsUnited] SEZ'S out - NEW YEARS EVE GIFT
Even as the INC led coalition Government braces up with the first agenda for the New Year 2008 -- viz; its role on the future of Special Economic Zones in Goa --- it is now clear that the three SEZ's approved are on the way to being recommended to the Central Government for DENOTIFICATION as a New Year's eve Gift to aam aadmi. Thus all SEZ's either in the public, private, joint sector or set up by the Government of Goa will hence forth not be set up in Goa. This implies that Govt of Goa policy on SEZ's in the State (under the SEZ Act 2005 and Rules 2006 notified on 10th February, 2006, ) formulated by the then Shri Pratapsing Raoji Rane Government will finally end up as a closed chapter for the state. An indication of this momentous decision to do away with SEZ's which otherwise could have destroyed the demographic compostion of this State with the sporadic influx of outsiders in the State almost became apparent when the Prime Minister of India Dr Manmohan Singh while on a two day visit to the State on 27th 28th December, 2007 to inuagurate the Goa BroadBand Network first Phase - WAN linkages stated in his prepared speech --- quote Goa is a beautiful state. Although small in size, it is blessed with extraordinary natural beauty. It occupies a pride of place for its scenic beauty, vibrant culture, tolerant tradition and forward looking people. The warm and hospitable nature of its people has made Goa one of the most sought after international tourist destinations. In many ways, Goa opened the door to large scale tourism into our country. SIZE CAN HAVE ITS LIMITATION. THE POTENTIAL FOR INDUSTRIALIZATION IN GOA IS LIMITED. AFTER ALL, YOU NEED TO STRIKE A BALANCE BETWEEN MAINTAINING YOUR PRISTINE NATURAL BEAUTY AND THE NEEDS OF INDUSTRY. Therefore, focusing on the services sector is a good option for Goa's continued economic growth. Tourism has been one success story... unquote. Clearly the PM seems to have been convinced that the State was too delicate to be tampered with the nuances of the 15 SEZs which were indeed deemed foreign territory. After all tourism industry he noted was a success. But he also announced several infrastructure schemes worth over Rs. 1650 crores to enhance the economic progress of the State and make it a Knowledge centre. When this writer enquired telephonically this evening with the Chief Secretary Shri J P Singh on the recent developments viz; a possible New Year's eve announcement on the denotification of the three SEZ's and scrapping out all other proposals all he had to say was that the Task force on Infrastructure Development recently constituted to study the pros and cons of the SEZ's by the Chief Minister of Goa Shri Digambar Kamat was meeting tommorrow at 12 noon and a decision would on then follow. However it is clear that with the INC stand announced by the Goa Pradesh Congress Committee President Mr Francisco Sardinha MP Mormugao Parliamentary Constituency yesterday, that the setting up of SEZ's in its present form was not conducive to the State of Goa the announcement is going to be a reality. Attempts to ascertain this stand from the Chief Minister were unsuccessful as the CM Governor and politicos that matter were enroute South, to the South Goa strongmans Constituency (Navelim) in Salcete to attend the wedding reception of one of Churchill Alemao's daughter's marriage. There were also reports at the time of writing that Ms Priyanka Gandhi nee Vadra daughter of Mrs Sonia Gandhi would be attending the reception . It may be recalled that Mr Alemao has a close relation with the Vadras. ( It is also confirmed that Ms Priyanka will be ushering the New Year's celebration from our tiny Goa along with several other VVIPs.) Agitationists should however not be complacent with this news. The white paper on the SEZ's released yesterday evening by the Government of Goa should be pruned well to study the nitty gritty of the post SEZ scenario as the Government could also covertly attempt to promote the 18 manufacturing, services and trading concerns, by further curtailing the land use and allowing their development under the existing State laws. GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES, BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA) +91 98221 58584 (24 HRS) [EMAIL PROTECTED] Do you get hundreds of mails everyday? Delete none. Go to http://in.rd.yahoo.com/tagline_mail_9/*https://edit.india.yahoo.com/config/eval_register
[VascokarsUnited] Three notified SEZ's in Goa denotified?
According to a telephonic message received this evening by this writer the three notified SEZ's in Goa have since been de-notified. This sudden move is believed to have come about due to certain political developments at the Centre which may not be palatable to the United Progressive Alliance government at the Centre. The Government of Goa too would not like to provide a handle to the Opposition in the oncoming session of the first Goa Legislative Assembly session for the current year beginning this week 10th January, 2008 and also to checkmate the utterances of the Secretary Commerce Government of India that SEZ's once notified cannot be de-notified which derides public interest. Meanwhile, there is also an apprehension the Opposition may clamour for the heads of those involved in approving the SEZ's in the earlier government headed by Mr Pratapsing Raoji Rane, by demanding that criminal cases be filed against them or they should be removed from the Cabinet. This could put the Digamber Kamat coalition government in a quandry of sorts though the numbers are in their favour. It would also be time opportune for Mr Kamat to consolidate his hold over the Government as the stigma of non-governance even after seven months in office shows him as a weak kneed CM. While the demand to unseat the Cabinet Ministers involved in approving the SEZ's will be welcome by anti-SEZ forces and strenghten Mr Kamat it is left to be seen whether he can execute this draconian plan even if it means embarassing the INC High Command but to assert his control over things. But there is also an underlying fear that knowing the ground realities the young turks in the Government too may consolidate their numbers to bring about a change in Government for now is the time to strike if they intend or have to continue with the present arrangements until the Lok Sabha elections are due in May 2009 or a midterm poll following an aam aadmi budget 2008. GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES, BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA) +91 98221 58584 (24 HRS) [EMAIL PROTECTED] Save all your chat conversations. Find them online at http://in.messenger.yahoo.com/webmessengerpromo.php
[VascokarsUnited] three notified SEZ's in Goa denotified
According to a telephonic message received this evening by this writer the three notified SEZ's in Goa have since been de-notified. This sudden move is believed to have come about due to certain political developments at the Centre which may not be palatable to the United Progressive Alliance government at the Centre. The Government of Goa too would not like to provide a handle to the Opposition in the oncoming session of the first Goa Legislative Assembly session for the current year beginning this week 10th January, 2008 and also to checkmate the utterances of the Secretary Commerce Government of India that SEZ's once notified cannot be de-notified which derides public interest. Meanwhile, there is also an apprehension the Opposition may clamour for the heads of those involved in approving the SEZ's in the earlier government headed by Mr Pratapsing Raoji Rane, by demanding that criminal cases be filed against them or they should be removed from the Cabinet. This could put the Digamber Kamat coalition government in a quandry of sorts though the numbers are in their favour. It would also be time opportune for Mr Kamat to consolidate his hold over the Government as the stigma of non-governance even after seven months in office shows him as a weak kneed CM. While the demand to unseat the Cabinet Ministers involved in approving the SEZ's will be welcome by anti-SEZ forces and strenghten Mr Kamat it is left to be seen whether he can execute this draconian plan even if it means embarassing the INC High Command but to assert his control over things. But there is also an underlying fear that knowing the ground realities the young turks in the Government too may consolidate their numbers to bring about a change in Government for now is the time to strike if they intend or have to continue with the present arrangements until the Lok Sabha elections are due in May 2009 or a midterm poll following an aam aadmi budget 2008 GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES, BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA) +91 98221 58584 (24 HRS) [EMAIL PROTECTED] Forgot the famous last words? Access your message archive online at http://in.messenger.yahoo.com/webmessengerpromo.php
[VascokarsUnited] LOHIA MAIDAN Margao Illegal structure
In April 1999 the then Governor of Goa Lt Gen (Retd) J F R Jacob, was apprised by this writer of an illegal kitchen premises belonging to Hotel Kamat that exists on the North west end of the Lohia Maidan at Margao. This was because during the exercise of beautification the Government had carefully designed the wall within the Maidan apparently to discreetly “regularize” this encroachment. The Governor promptly directed the then Collector (South) Mr H Rajesh Prasad IAS, to examine the matter. Incidentally as investigations were moving at snails space this writer requested a prominent freedom fighter Shri Vasant Mordekar in June 2000 and a member of the Goa Freedom Fighters Association who have their office within the vicinity of the Maidan to get rid of the illegal structure. The writer also brought to Mr Mordekar’s kind notice that while they raised a hue and cry over a temporary shade being erected for the public Q’ing up to pay the motor vehicle taxes at the then Directorate of Transport office counter within the Maidan , they had given a feeble response to this encroachment for reasons unknown. This irregular structure has marred the splendid looking building “Administracao das Communidades de Salcete “ building whose construction was initiated by the then Governor of Goa Mr Vassalo Silva in early 1960- 61 and was completed in 1968. However in February, 2001 the Chief Minister of Goa Mr Manohar Parrikar ordered an investigation in the matter, and the then Chief officer Margao Municipal Council Mr A. V Chikkodi merely clarified that the alleged illegal structure exists on property surveyed under Chalta No 33 of PT Sheet 232 of City Survey Office Margao .In June 2002 the present Collector South Goa District Mr G P Naik, then the Chief Officer of Margao Muncipal Council promised to examine the matter and “action deem fit if necessary” would be initiated. Given the inaction of the MMC it appears that no action is deemed fit. But many Margaoites know full well it is indeed an illegal encroachment on the Maidan and the point out to a part of the earlier compound wall which now forms a part of the kitchen. Later during the out break of the jaundice epidemic in Goa Dr V R Muralidharan Health Officer Urban Health Centre Margao vide letter date 10.09.2003 issued a notice to the proprietors of Kamat Hotel under the Goa Public Health Act, 1985 (as amended from time to time ) on the unhygienic state of the kitchen which could lead to spread of dangerous infectious disease to customers ; and they were directed to set right the defects within 24 hrs of receipt of the notice. The kitchen was used for bathing as well as toilet for the workforce. In 2003 this writer requested yet once more requested the City Survey office Margao to confirm how the mutation if any was carried out without the Deed of Sale being executed by the proprietors of the alleged illegal kitchen. In 2004 , Mr D. K Patil Inspector of Survey and Land Records City Survey, Margao replied stating that the property Chalta No 33 of PT Sheet 232 stands recorded in the name of a) Margao Municipality and b) Mr Motiram D Gaundalkar which is still “provisional” and the names in the Form B were recorded by the Field surveyor during the general survey operations some time in 1972. One of their kin G Gaundalkar was the Chairperson of the Margao Municipal Council as well. In March 2005 CO MMC was asked to confirm whether in the light of the above observations the structures were illegal but there has been no reply till now. Successive Chief Officers have been evading the reply and action against the illegality in their own property. The Government has now painted the surrounding walls (back side) of the “Administracao das Communidades de Salcete “ building and surrounding walls of the Maidan and is getting ready to unveil the life size statue of Dr Ram Manohar Lohia the socialist leader on eve of Republic Day 2008 recently installed in the Maidan . No one grudges the befitting tribute paid to Dr Lohia , who had given a clarion call for revolt against the erstwhile Portuguese regime on 18th June 1946 from this historic Maidan. However two questions uppermost in public view a) what provoked the demolition of the earlier “stambha” like structure erected in 1999 during a smilar beautification exercise at the cost of nearly 8 lacs in less than a decade ? b) what provoked the reconstruction of yet another public toilet in the Maidan adjoining the illegal kitchen structure? c) why is the illegal structure not being demolished yet? When this writer had a teletalk this afternoon with Mr Gurunath Kelekar a freedom fighter he said the earlier structure did not reflect any symbolism and hence a committee of eminent citizens decided upon installing the life size statue and it was approved by the Municipal Council as well in early 1999. He however gave due
[VascokarsUnited] KONKANI NIRANTARI -40 HRS SINGING MARATHON POISED FOR NEW RECORD
Saraswat Brahmins in Goa had reason to discreetly gloat and rejoice over the award of the second highest civilian award Padma Vibhushan to the octogenarian Dr Ravindra Kelecar a Saraswat Brahmin Konkani litterateur a native of Priol Ponda Taluka Novas Conquistas a staunch protagonist of one Language One script (devanagari) But for the over fifty lac Konkani speaking people spread all over the world who staunchly believe in One language and diverse scripts ( be it Romi, Kannada, Malayalam and Devanagari ) Chief Adjudicator Keith Pullin of Guinness World Records who is at the venue Kalaangann in down town Shaktinagar, Mangalore City in the South Indian State of Karnataka Konkani will in a few moments from now (by 2200hrs ) ink down on the certificate and incorporate thereon tbe new record an achievement of --- Konkani Nirantari 40 hrs of non stop singing marathon of Konkani musical choirs in the Guinness World Records. An all Hindu Goan troupe headed by P Chari (Chari stands for vocations like tin smiths/carpenters and formed one of the traditional members of the erstwhile Gaunkaries )and Kepemchim Kirnnam an all Catholic Goan troupe too participated in the marathon as per reports just received. The Marathon singing in Konkani which began on India's 59th Republic Day at 0600 hrs IST will end shortly from now at 2200 hrs Sunday, 27th January, 2008. The Mandd Sobhann organisation of Eric Ozario of Mangalore will thus earn full honours for this tremendous achievement in organising this feat which features around 1500 singers in the age group of 16 years and above with a total of nearly 44 Groups with a minimum of 30 members per group and nearly 600 songs to be sung in the 40 hour singing marathon. Nearing the new 40 hour Konkani singing marathon record it has just broken at 18hrs today the the 36 hours record which stands in the name of Communidade Evangelica Luterana Sao Paulo, Ulbra Brazil founded in 1905 and was set on 4th July 2004. Incidentally as per reports received from the venue the troupe which was singing when this record was broken was from Mumbai and the song was dedicated to Mother Theresa. It may be recalled that this writer had organised a public performance of the Mandd Sobhann musical Group of Konkani songs on the historic Lohia Maidan at Margao for the first time in Goa in the early eighties with Eric Ozario and troupe and late Chafra D Costa and it was then a pleasant experience for the people of Goa who otherwise take pride of being called a Konkani speaking state to note that it could not outwit the enthusiasm grit and determination of the people of Mangalore in Karnataka to promote our mother tongue and bring it to the great heights it has achieved today. Ofcourse it is the protoganists of Konkani in Devanagari the likes of Uday L Bhembre, Chandrakant Keni, Ravindra Kelekar, Damodar Mauzo, etc etc that have proved to be clogs in the efforts to allow Konkani in Goa and other States to flourish giving due respect to diverse scripts. It must however be said to the credit of our playwrights both in Mumbai and Goa who have kept the flame of Konkani glowing and ofcourse the Jesuits who have rendered yeomen service to the language and continue to do so till date notwithstanding the one sided view of the Devanagari lobby. Incidentally it must be remembered that when ex-MP and present PWD Minister first spoke in Parliament in Konkani it was the people from Mangalore that complimented him ironically the Goans were busy ridiculing him for the words he uttered in the House ignorant or perhaps oblivious of the fact that this was indeed the turning point in the history of one of the most persecuted regional language both by the Marathi lobby which treated is as dialect of Marathi and the Nagri script writers of Konkani the Saraswat lobby who denegrate the Roman script Konkani. GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES, BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA) +91 98221 58584 (24 HRS) [EMAIL PROTECTED] DELETE button is history. Unlimited mail storage is just a click away. Go to https://edit.india.yahoo.com/config/eval_register
[VascokarsUnited] AMBELIM MAN -- SAVE GOA LAND -- CRUSADER
The recently concluded brief Budget session of the Goa Legislative Assembly in March, proposes to bring out an amendment to the Registration Act to curb the foreigners buying property in Goa. When this amendment comes about there would still be doubts whether the amendment in fool proof and result in further sale of land. But at least in the Salcete taluka , fishing hamlet Banda, Ambelim Assolna there is one individual of the same community a tutor in his mid forties Mr Anthony D Silva (Sir as he is prominently called ) an undergraduate from Smt Parvatibai Chowgule College of Arts Science Vidyanagar Gogol Fatorda and later did his Diploma in Electronics and Television at Mumbai who believes in what Dr B R Ambedkar’s Father of our sacred Constitution of India –whose birth anniversary is celebrated on 14th April, 2008 ---make one “aware, educate and agitate”. Recently it was in March, 2008 he was agitated that “Goa was put up for sale” in New Delhi . He was amazed at the stand of world renowned fashion designer Mr Wendall Rodrick a niz Goencar who condemned the India’s No: 1 property sale exhibition held in Tivolis Garden Chattarpur Rd Near Chattarpur Mandir New Delhi –( refer www.magicbricks.com ) on 15th and 16th March, 2008 between 1100 to 2000 hrs an event managed by PS World Events and the Times of Inda. An earlier exhibition was held on 12th 13th January, 2008 at Navi Mumbai. He could not believe that Goa his motherland was being sold to the highest bidder. What followed was an unique education and awareness programme. He made posters to warn Goans about the dangers of selling their lands for which posterity would never forgive them. He even referred to a picture in the NCERT X standard books which illustrate how the citizens of a place in Africa are now struggling to retrieve their lost lands. To begin with Mr D Silva embarked upon a novel idea. He used a second hand Maruti car GA-02-S-0310 with a little modification of its back seats. He purchased a roller and reams of news print 100 metres long from Pydhonie Mimbai and initiated a signature drive. Beginning with his own village in Assolna on 12th March, 2008 he moved on to Chinchinim the next day followed by Margao Velim Benaulim Carmona Mapusa and there are further plans for Vasco-da-Gama Quepem and Calangute. There are areas too where there is demand and Mr D Silva needs to co-ordinate the movement and looks up for funds. A single signature drive at any one of the venues costs him Rs 1000/- to Rs. 1500/- petrol and meals for those that accompany him and hosts; and Mr D Silva has been thus far spending his own resources,. He admits that there are benevolent citizens like Dr Francisco Colaco the eminent cardiologist from Margao who not only encouraged his endeavours but even contributed to his movement. When asked whether he would solicit donations he points out to a poster which he ashamedly has withdrawn. He says it was an appeal but the Goans only share emotive outbursts on saving the land but when it comes to donations even a pittance as his endeavour necessitates they prefer to give for other grandiose activities of course where their names would be tagged; but all this does not deter him he admits. What hurts him that while the total land purchased by Goans in places outside Goa in the last 48 years after Liberation (1961) will surely be less than the land purchased in the last two yeas by the non Goans. For the records an Brit has purchased land in Colva admeasuring over 45,000 m2. Shoickingly cultivable land is being raped for residential and hospitality industry etc. Even at times he adds he has to look for funds even for his daily chores a family Violet his wife and two children the older one a girl pursuing her CET exams and a school going son. His parents late Mr Doming Inas D Silva and late Ms Marrid D Silva expired long ago but he has named his extremely modest house in a 200 m2 plot as Marrid House. There are large pictures of the two on the inner walls a grim reminder of their contribution to his erudite upbringing, When asked how his other four brothers and two sisters look upon him as the youngest in this great single handed mission he states that they have been silent watchers and are aware of his endeavours. At the meetings when the signature drive is under way he tells those gathered – a) let us not sell land more than required for one family a restriction of 400 to 1000 would be ideal b) Goa does not need to be advertised for sale c) Goa is well known worldwide and too small to be exhibited.. He further goes on --- let Goa be like a museum where the visitor come and relish its beauty our unique hospitality and go back to from wher they come from . Do we buy a room of the museum even if we like an item from it – NO – then why buy land in Goa? He argues to make a point which is well received and the signature
