Daijiworld Media Network - Porvorim

Porvorim, Jan 17: Opposition leader Yuri Alemao urged chief minister Pramod Sawant to take decisive steps to protect Goa’s unique identity, raising concerns over land sales, hill cutting, environmental degradation, and unchecked development. He presented a private member’s resolution in the assembly on Opinion Poll Day, Friday, the final day of the winter session.

“When will Goa’s carrying capacity be defined? Rivers are being polluted, land conversions are rampant, and hills are being destroyed. These practices must stop,” Alemao said, calling for a halt on land sales, zoning changes, and illegal hill cutting. He also demanded that private policing activities be stopped, warning that allowing non-state actors to enforce laws threatens Goa’s identity.

“The environment is central to Goa’s identity. Hills, coastlines, and rivers are more than just resources; they define who we are. Damaging them is not only an ecological loss but a loss of culture and civilization,” Alemao added.

Congress MLAs also voiced support. Quepem MLA Altone D’Costa said those dividing Goa must be restrained, while Aldona MLA Carlos Ferreira expressed concerns that the state’s unique identity is under threat.

Responding, CM Pramod Sawant said the government is not responsible for land sales. Despite the Chief Minister’s repeated requests, Alemao refused to withdraw the resolution.