http://oheraldo.in/node/10045
Goans could turn into minorities soon HERALD NEWS DESK PANJIM, FEB 18 - Cortalim MLA Matanhy Saldanha has raised fears that Goans would be minorities in their own land in the near future. In a press note issued here, Saldanha ridiculed the government for projecting plans such as Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and Mopa International Airport while it cannot provide basic amenities such as 24-hour water and other infrastructure in the villages. He said the government should focus on reducing the distance between Dabolim and Bambolim by building causeway and four-lane bridges on River Zuari. He asserted that special economic zone and Mopa international airport will neither be sustainable nor are they viable even after 50 years from now. He alleged that Congress with its "deceiving approach of harmony is out to pull the carpet from under the feet of the simple, easily gullible and manipulative community of Goans, who have very little information about what is happening to them behind their backs." Saldanha further said that Maharashtra has already declared the Kholis, the East Indians, the original people of Mumbai as OBCs. The East Indians, who were the owners of Mumbai have become minority today and the Maharashtra govt has felt the need to declare them OBCs so that they are protected. Such a situation should not arise in Goa, he warned. Before the entire Goans became minorities, the government should declare them as OBCs so that they get protection in terms of jobs, educational facilities and other benefits in the State, he satirized. He warned that govt's failure to declare the entire Goan community as OBCs, their identity will disappear into thin air within 20 years from now. -- Peace be with you! Ani borem mog khor! Gabe Menezes. London, England
