Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Jul 12: The long-standing debate over officially recognising Roman (Romi) script for Konkani could return to the spotlight in Goa’s Legislative Assembly, with AAP MLA Cruz Silva set to move a Private Member’s Resolution during the upcoming monsoon session beginning July 21.

Silva, who represents Velim, has formally submitted three resolutions, one of which proposes introducing Romi Konkani as an optional medium of instruction in schools. Citing constitutional protections for linguistic minorities and the multilingual thrust of the National Education Policy (NEP), Silva argues for curriculum development, teacher training, and resource allocation to support this inclusion.

A second resolution takes aim at Goa’s often-contentious land use policies. Silva has called for the government to freeze the current Regional Plan 2021 (RP-2021) and initiate work on a new Regional Plan built on transparent public participation. He emphasized that Goa’s limited and ecologically sensitive land needs better protection and that development must align with sustainability and local needs.

The third resolution focuses on historical recognition. Silva has proposed renaming the Lohia Memorial at Assolna — a prominent site in his constituency — to include Dr Juliao Menezes, a fellow freedom fighter. The new proposed name: Dr Juliao Menezes Memorial Lohia Chowk. The resolution also calls for a state-level annual event on June 18 (Goa Revolution Day) to be held at the site and a government grant to the Assolna panchayat for its maintenance.

These resolutions are likely to be tabled on July 25, the designated day for private members’ business in the Assembly. Silva’s proposals touch on language policy, land governance, and freedom movement heritage, potentially sparking vigorous debate in the House.