Letter To Editor, published in Herald, 27th August 2008 The dangling sword Reuben S, Chicalim The comments by the political leadership in Bihar show their insecurity at being identified as beggars. A simple statement, for once reflecting the feelings of the Goan people against the migrant menace in the state is now a political issue at the center. The Bihar Ministers have gone to the extent of threatening "serious consequences" in the coming session of Parliament. In the midst of this tirade, it is noteworthy to mention this quote "The people of Bihar are self-respecting and earn their bread through hard work.... they are not beggars. The beggars in Goa are the natives of that state who the Government has failed to rehabilitate." This quote amply illustrates how the corrupt politicians of Goa have made us the laughing stock of the nation. The reality is that beggars are a nUisance to both locals and tourists. These non-Goans are usually found at strategic tourist dominated spots haranguing them for loose change. Prior to this migrant influx Goa was a haven free from slums and squalor. Now large concrete structures and makeshift slums are threatening the picturesque landscape of Goa. The increasing presence of migrants is apparent during rush hours in state transport buses. The Kadamba buses that ply on the routes between major towns in the state are full of migrants, probably because private bus owners don't allow them onboard. These people enter the buses in dozens and are rude and abusive to fellow passengers. Their presence is causing much apprehension and promotes the anti-outsider sentiment. A stroll through the recently concluded Saptah would have made the average Gomkar felt alienated. It is opined that migrants from different strata of society, now make up around 40 percent of the population in Goa. A casual glance at the political scenario in our Goa shows that we have no regional party of standing to protect our interests. The two major political parties in Goa are both branches of a national party. The ministers of these parties are more interested in following the commands from the central party leadership. The hopes and expectations pf the locals are given second class status.
