*Subject: Who is Anti-Goan?* * *
During the Anti-SEZ movement, Mr. Mathany Saldanha called for Tourists to leave Goa by a certain date. I have my views on the latter, with respect to the critics:. (A) Criticism from some sections of the Public: While I do agree that Tourism is a major contributor to Goa's Economy, DO WE KILL THE GOOSE THAT LAYS THE GOLDEN EGG. Many do not appreciate the fact that people flock to Goa on Tourism primarily because, *Of Goa's Unique Charm, Hospitality, People, Culture & Identity* and not only because of our beautiful beaches. There are many other beautiful beaches/places in other parts of India, but we hold a key advantage!! Yes, If Mr. Saldanha's call came to action, tourism would be affected for some term, but do the critics realise that Mr. Saldanha was opposing projects that *would threaten the very strengths*, that will sustain/promote tourism in Goa, in the long term. We should not look at short term opportunities, but instead look at the same for the long term. I seriously doubt, Tourism will continue to be successful in Goa in the Long Term, if Goa looses its Basic Charm & Identity. So who will the critics criticize then!! (B) Criticism from Politicians: I found it amusing with some calling Mr. Saldanha, Anti-Goan. For Argument sake, let's say Mr. Saldanha is Anti-Goan, then what do we call (1) MLA's who have done nothing for Goan interests but instead kept on pleasing their "High Command" (2) MLA's with Proven Criminal/Illegal records aiming to sell Goa for the Highest Bidder e.g. the SEZ lobby now trying for more Cabinet Power to realize their greed & satisfy their Wealthy Backers (3) Senior Ministers who nurture/grow sizeable Non-Goan vote banks to ensure their seat in the Assembly; leave alone the threat of changing demographics to Goans. How can they to work for Goans, when they actually do not actually need Goan Votes?. The list is endless!! We should set up a rating on who is Anti-Goan and I am sure many will be rated very high on this list, much head of Mr. Saldanha; if at all we want to call him Anti-Goan!! *Arwin Mesquita, UAE. *
