In the death of Leonard Lobo, Goa has lost someone who always dared to speak out fearlessly and never hesitated to fight against injustice. Leonard hailed from Aldona but was based in Vasco where he over the last many years participated in various agitations against illegalities and corruption.
Over the years, Leonard also filed many public interest litigations and notably one which led the High Court to direct Urban development officials to shell from their pockets for having wasted public funds in an illegal so called beautification at Baina beach. In 2007, through a petition filed by Leonard Lobo it was brought to the High Court’s notice that GSUDA (Goa State Urban Development Agency) had in the garb of constructing a retaining wall on the Baina beach, constructed eight shops in violation of CRZ regulations. The retaining wall was just 50 metres away from the High tide line. Thanks to Leonard, not only did the High Court direct demolition of the illegal structures but also ordered for recovery from the government officials the expenditure incurred on the illegal construction. Leonard was always bold and brave while being very persuasive in all the issues he vigorously pursued. I have lost a friend of many years. May Leonard’s Soul rest in peace. Aires Rodrigues T1 - B30, Ribandar Retreat Ribandar - Goa - 403006 Mobile: 9822684372
