VOTERS "BOSLET AMCHEA KONKEAR"

It was terrible to read the news in Goan media that the group of TEN or as somebody said the GANG OF TEN headed by Churchill Alemao will dethrone the current Ministry of Digambar Kamat if Mickey Pacheco is reinstated in Digambar Kamat’s Ministry. If this threat of Churchill Alemao was executed it would be again a sad day for Goan politics at the end of this year. Good that saner counsel prevailed and no untoward incident took place keeping the current Government intact.

Knowing his background and history, if defied Churchill Alemao would have easily dethroned Digambar Kamat Ministry as he did earlier in late eighties when he worked hard to form PDF Government under him first a Chief Miniter and later on under Dr. Proto Barbosa by ignoring all the great political principles. Did the TEN representatives as shown in the picture above permitted by their voters to do this type of political Harakiri? Is there no voice for the voters once they elect their representatives? Is there any decency for the representatives when they discard the opinions of their voters and pilot the defection? Aren’t voters responsible for electing their representatives and as such should they not be consulted before taking any major decision by their elected representatives? Are voters treated by the defectors as GHANTTA BOIL??

Or voters themelves have got converted into GHANTTA BOIL??

Our politicians got a very dirty habbit, once they are elected they treat their voters as “KOCHRO” without consulting them and without taking into consideration their opinion they do what is best for them and not what is best for their voters. Now, did this group or Gang of TEN obtain the permission of their voters to throw out the Ministry of Digambar Kamat? Or they all think their voters as “GHANTTA BOIL?” Do these 10 want to say that their voters “BOSLET AMCHEA KONKEAR?” Those who voted these persons must think twice in the coming election.

During the coming election, Goan voters must be more educated and put a condition to their representatives that they will never change their parties once they get elected on particular symbol and that they will never ignore the feelings and decisions of their voters. It is time now to control the elected representatives and their dictatorial acts of discarding the opinions of their voters. Henceforth, voters should stop their representatives from taking any decision without their consent. It is time now to stop our representatives from acting as big “DADAS”.

Meantime the supporters of Mickey Pacheco who got strong support here in Kuwait from the Goans hailing from Nuvem and Benaulim are hell bent to see Mickey Pacheco back on the previous place. Some of them even decided to go down to Goa to support Mickey Pacheco in the coming general election. Among the politicians frequenting Kuwait, rightly or wrongly Mickey Pacheco enjoyed better goodwill and support which he could easily utilize in the coming election for him to get victory even though he was disgraced for being responsible for the death of his girlfriend.

A. Veronica Fernandes,

Kuwait.

CONTROVERSIES HOGGED MICKEY PACHECO. By Nisser Dias.

Controversies hogged Mickky Pacheco for most of the year. As the world welcomes the new year, I would like to reminisce about some important events involving our elected representatives and officials during 2010. Topping the list is bandanna sporting MLA who has been in news for all the wrong reasons.


Every end of the year while the world readies itself to bring in the new and wring out the old, Benaulim MLA Mickky Pacheco seems to have attracted only controversies. To make my point clear, last December (28th Dec 2009) it was alleged that the former Tourism minister was the mastermind behind the stoning and ransacking the house of a Colva panch for producing a CD based on the lifestyle of a politician and a priest. From then on for one complete year controversies have dogged the legislator. And this week we have heard that the Congress led government has closed doors on his reinstatement as a minister.

The year started with the South Goa administration or rather the district collector G P Naik who is a crony of the politicians issuing an order in January to ban the controversial CD without even hearing it. Worse still he issued a gag order on the media particularly the electronic media of playing the CD on their channels. Subsequently the court struck down the order of the Collector terming it irrational. Infact, the ban order of the Collector helped the sales of the CD to soar.

In the same month Home minister Ravi Naik made a startling statement that drugs were not available in Goa. So illogical was the statement, given the fact that drugs and the first tourists made their entry together into Goa in the 70’s. Worse still the statement was so ill-timed when there were allegation of his son Roy Naik being the kingpin in the drug trade along the coastal belt.

Subsequently the can of worms opened to reveal the involvement of police officers in the drug trade which was followed by their arrest and dismissal from office. In the third week of January, Babush Monserrate revived the ‘Gang of 7’ namely the NCP trio, MGP duo, Vishwajeet Rane. Churchill Alemao also had talks with the G7. Chief minister Digambar Kamat took the easy way out, inducted Babush as the Education minister by dropping equally controversial minister Dayanand Narvekar.


The month of January 2010 ended with the scion of the Gandhi family Rahul Gandhi visiting the state. Besides the controversy he created with his political meeting at the Goa University, he left state with food for thought for the Goan youth. He said, “You either play the game or go home. Don’t be a commentator be a player”. With this words he was urging the youth to join main stream politics.

The month of February saw Coastal Regulation Zone authorities executed High Court orders and demolished structures built in violation of the CRZ rules and regulations. While temporary structures of traditional fishermen and small encroachments of small entrepreneurs faced the axe the big fish like owners of five star hotels got away. Ironically hotel industrialist are the ones who have changed the demography of the coastal line and done much damaged to our shores.


It was also the month when Fatorda MLA sought personal details of all the students in the state studying in first to fourth standard and from tenth to12th. And the director of Education who is more of rubber stamp of the politicians willingly made it available it to him. Nothing must have happened now but one can be sure that if the BJP comes to power they will use this information to target the minorities.


In the month of March the Tourist Taxi Operators indicated how unruly lot they are. It is open secret that these clan fleece tourists left, right and centre and want to monopolize this type extortion. They do not to share the spoils with the tour operators. When a tour operator tried to take his guests for sight seeing in a coach, the tourist taxi operators blocked the bus and grabbed the gun from the waistband of the driver and threatened to shoot him, thus bringing a bad name to Goa, Goans and tourism in Goa.

During the assembly session in the month of April the Opposition headed by Manohar Parrikar floored the government on all fronts. Infact the Opposition exposed how the state treasury was losing money due to the lopsided policies of the Digambar Kamat led government. Parrikar pointed out how the exchequer was being denied crores of rupees through illegal mining with minister themselves either indulging in it or having a share in the loot. The BJP also exposed scam in the excise department and they went a step ahead to allege that CM could be involved.

Urban Development ministry headed by Joaquim Alemao was totally exposed for criminal waste of exchequer’s money. Comptroller and Auditor General Of India (CAG) in its audit report nailed the minister’s hide to the wall for lapses purportedly committed to suit his pockets.


The junior Alemao has wasted crores of rupees by purchasing defunct sweeping machines, introducing untested technology to treat garbage at Sonsoddo dump, illegally building sun bay to watch sunset at Baina beach which was ordered to be demolished. Now this minister is building an air conditioning toilet in the Municipal Garden at Margao. Personnel of Goa State Pollution Control Board was roused from their hibernation by some activist from Colva who took to streets to protest over the worsening conditioning of the Colva creek. For years now illegal restaurants which have been allowed to function from the banks of the creek have been discharging their sewage into the creek thereby polluting it. What the board has done so far is that it has only issued some show cause notices to the restaurants. As of today the degradation of the creek continues.

It was also in the month of May that the chief minister Digambar Kamat exposed his pseudo self. While telling the Goans that he works for the aam admi, he told some activists who were peacefully protesting about the marauding of Goa’s limited land mass, “I don’t depend on your votes, go ahead and do whatever you want”. However as of today he will not even get votes from the migrants at Monti Dongor because of formation of two rival groups there.

The fall of former Tourism Minister Mickky Pacheco from power began with the suicidal death of his friend Nadia Torrado. Police investigation revealed a sad saga of alleged sex, assault and deceit. The flamboyant Benaulim MLA tried real hard to cover up the entire issue by trying to save her life. But the almighty had other plans and young girl lost her life. This cost the arrogant MLA his ministership and also suffered detention in jail.


But while Mickky was undergoing a bad phase, Babush Monseratte managed to worm his way back into the Congress in the month of June. This Taleigao legislator had ditched Congress at the eleventh hour by filing his nomination on a regional party. It was alleged that he was instrumental in brutally assaulting youth congress for protesting about stopping of setting up of IT Habitat at Dona Paula.


TO BE CONTINUED NEXT WEEK.

Send your comments/reactions to nisserdias@gmail.com Or SMS 9422437029)(Nisser Dias writes a regular column in GT on Thursday. This article was published in GT today)

UNITED GOANS IN KUWAIT CLEBRATED X'MAS.

UNITED GOANS CNTER the oldest Goan Soccer Club in Kuwait clebrated Chritmas by holding a get-together at Asia Hall in Kuwait City, on 24th of this month.

Seen above are photos of the celebration.

Gupit Mog Released in Kuwait.

By Gasper Crasto

Kuwait: Trio Kings fame Franky Oliveiro’s first Konkani Audio CD “GUPIT MOG” produced by Simon Dias of Walt-Simon Productions was blessed on Christmas day at the hands of Holy Family Cathedral's Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Gasper Fernandes before it was released at a glittering function held at the Kuwait Continental Hotel.

Mrs. Carolina Fernandes released the CD. Well-known artistes Mario de Majorda, Irene Cardozo, musician Shahu Almeida were present on the ocassion. The function was compered by the 'Hitman of the Konkani Stage' and renowned singer Mr. Sylvester Vaz who has also rendered a song in the album. His song ‘Moladik Utram’ is a beautifully composed song on a complete new theme.
The CD starts with a track titled 'Chouvis Igorzo' by Franky that highlights all the churches and its patrons in Salcete-Goa.

'Gupit Mog', the title track is second on the list and is sung by Bushka beautifully in her inimitable voice. 'Oh Maria' sung by Juju is a track people would love to hear over and over again.

'Happy Birthday' is a special song for a one year olds and has been voiced by Anthony San. 'Tujer Patielim' is a love song and has Clarissa singing about her love at first sight.

'Patkanchi Zoddti', a track composed and sung by Melody King Lawry Travasso speaks of our greed for wealth and earthly pleasures. Larissa Lopes sings 'Abghat' while Simon Dias highlights the need to restore Goa for Goans in his track 'Goeam Raakh'.

'Magnnem' is another melodious track by Franky, and 'Saud' composed and sung by Clint Furtado is a toast song, specially dedicated to the producer’s niece Rochelle and her husband Savio.

'Maka Kiteak Poddlam' is Juju’s second track on the CD that spells out the laid back attitude of Goans and its ill effects.

The music for this CD has been composed by Maestro Filipe Barretto while Juju and Caetano Goes have penned the lyrics. Produced by Simon Dias, this is the third Audio CD under the Walt Simon Productions Banner. Onath and Kumsar were the earlier two successful albums released under the banner.

To book your copies, call Simon (97827670), Avelino (99671107) or email thelensmen@yahoo.com.

GOA'S CM DIGAMBAR KAMAT SUPPORTER OF NON-GOANS.

CM Godfather Of Monti Dongor.

The infamous Monti Dongor is again in the news and as usual for allthe wrong reasons, as violence flared up yet again in Digambar Kamat’spersonal “Shangri-La”, just a few weeks ago there was a bout ofviolence between supporters of two rival groups during the Municipalelections. Both the involved in this fresh case of violence, are alsothe main accused in the swords case as well, and our Chief Ministerhas confirmed that both these groups are his supporters. Well, well,well, it’s crystal clear why these miscreants are still on the prowlin his very backyard, not that we didn’t know about it, but now it’son record as it has come straight for the horse’s mouth.

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat has always had a soft corner for theresidents of Monti Dongor, Davorlim and Kharebandh needless to say, hecares more about them than the actual Goans, as he plays Godfather tohis vote bank, that’s the reason these anti social elements are notscared of anyone, nor worried about the consequences. There is also avideo in circulation with our CM having drinks with the accused atMonti Dongor. Our CM has been bending over backwards trying his bestto get their illegal housing units legalized, whereas he has doneabsolutely nothing to protect the houses of coastal Goans who arehaving sleepless nights because of the CRZ nightmare. Our CM, not solong ago had told us that he did not need our votes, as he is sure hecan win entirely with his vote bank politics.

After the latest bout of violence, both, the police and our CM haveassured that action against the accused will be taken as per the law,but correct me if I am wrong, was this not the same law that wasaround, at the time of all the flare-ups involving these samemiscreants or the even the swords case ? So why was no action taken asper the same law, then ?

Digambar Kamat further said that the previous flare-ups were notrelated to politics or elections, I wonder how he came to that awfulconclusion, as it was very much evident, that it had everything to dowith politics and elections, I am sure, as usual our CM has his ownvery personal reasons to say otherwise, to misguide Goans.

Goa is fast catching up with lawless eastern frontier of India and thereason for this deterioration of law and order in Goa is totallybecause of our high and mighty politicians who want to play Godfathersto the antisocial elements, each and every politician has his own bandof goons to take care of problems and problematic people and they arewell protected by the law enforcement agencies. That is the mainreason why these criminal and antisocial elements survive and thrivein Goa.

Freddy Agnelo Fernandes

CHURCHILL ALEMAO AFRAID OF MICKEY ONLY.

There Is More Than Meets The Eye.

Goa’s chief minister Digambar Kamat has weathered a whole lot ofstorms right from the very first day at office, he is become a veteranof sorts, coming through all the storms, unscratched. Ever since thefall if the Bandodkar legacy, a lot old, young and not so young havebeen eyeing the CM’s chair, like guys eyeing the best looking damselat the brothel, eyes sparkling with lust already visualizing the orgyto come.

So far Digambar Kamat has somehow managed to hold on to his prizedpossession, initially it was the G8 a group within the alliance, whowanted more than what they got and now we have the G10 led by noneother than the PWD minister, who has already had the taste of the mostsought after object in the Assembly.

The bone of contention has been the “designer” (dorji being the “R”word), business man turned politician, the ladies man as he is fondlycalled, I would not like to divulge into his personal life, thoughthere is nothing personal left of his personal life courtesy the highprofile “dogui bodmas” polygamy case and ofcourse the “ratol” case,though it does bemuse me that we Goans, an educated lot have a goodsense of humor to project such characters as leaders of Goa.

Personally I have met this man just once at the Apollo hospital when amutual friend was fighting for his life. I have been allergic to ourGoan politicians ever since my return to Goa from Bombay at thebeginning of the 80’s and it has only got worse, so much so that Ihave to fumigate myself every time a Goan politicians passes a fewyards from me, my hands are always in my pockets, they are neverextended to politicians, Micky has been no exception.

Now what astonishes me more than anything else is the insecurity ofthe PWD minister who has managed to pull in the nine idiots, most ofwhom were celebrating Micky’s birthday bash just a couple of weeksearlier, the enmity between the Alemao’s and Mickey is well known andhas a long history, when the big Alemao was made to eat the humble pieat the Assembly election form the Benaulim constituency, a defeat thathit his ego below the belt and he has never forgiven Mickey for that.About a year ago there was a compromise between the two camps and allseemed to have been forgiven and forgotten but then the devil was atplay again and it’s now war between the two camps.

According to the PWD minister the reason given for his stand againstthe induction of Mickey in the cabinet has been Mickey’s lack ofmorality, the word morality is a mighty one and sounds good comingfrom the mouths of religious leaders and teachers but form our Goanpoliticians it looses it’s divinity, can we even name one of the fortyand say he or she is morally unquestionable ? Does the PWD ministerhave any morality himself ? Wasn’t he caught on tapes taking bribes ?Hasn’t he lied to us Goans on several occasions ? Has he not beensupporting the builders and miners against the very people who electedhim ? What right has a person of his caliber to talk about Micky’smorality ? If morality was the criteria of admission into theAssembly, none of the forty could come even a mile close to theentrance of the Assembly.
The PWD minister should stop bullshitting and give the exact reasonwhy he does not want Mickey in the cabinet. It only shows how scaredhe is of Mickey’s induction in the cabinet, otherwise why should he goto such an extent and threaten to bring down the Kamat government, notthat the Kamat government is a paradise of virtues and morality. ThePWD minister is only trying to force the issue just to show hissupport to the high command and it’s periphery, so that he can hijackthe “chair” come the next elections. Instead of wasting time and moneyon this circus he should concertrate on fulfilling his promises to thepeople.

I certainly do not condone with Mickey but as the saying goes “set athief to catch thief”, he is the right person to checkmate the bigman, of all the people in Goa Churchill seems to be scared of onlyMickey. Churchill’s obdurate stand against Mickey can never be ongrounds of morality, nor because of his animosity. If Churchill was sodisgusted with Mickey’s immorality as well his animosity he would havetaken this stand long time ago that’s why I say there is lot more thanmeets the eye in Churchill’s obdurate stand against Mickey.

In all the problems that are brewed up by our politicians, we Goansare the losers, as our hard earned money, the tax payers money, isspent on their trips and meetings, public money should be used for thewelfare of the people and not wasted on the artificial crises createdby the politicians for their own benefits.

Freddy Agnelo Fernandes,
Nuem, Cabo-de-Rama - Goa,
Dubai - UAE.

THIS MUST BE STOPPED.

It was atrocious, disgusting and unbearable to witness the horrible scenes on Saturday 25th of this month, in Kuwait City in the afternoon and in the evening. 25th December being a Christmas Day, Christians go to the Church. Holy Family Cathedral is the main Church for Catholics for worship, this Cathedral or Church is located in Kuwait City. Overwhelming majority of Expatriate Catholics from different nationalities working in Kuwait go for worship in this Church. During the Christmas and Easter Days more people go to this Church. This being the place of worship for Christian Catholics, I don’t understand why non-Christian males are also coming to this Church area. These non-Christians have no business to loiter around this area and spoil the sanctity of this Church, Christianity and Catholicism. By disturbing the peace in the Church Compound and adjoining areas these non-Christians not only disturb the peace of Church goers but also disturb the dignity of their own religion. Above all these non-Christian males by indulging in anti-Christian activities in the Church compound and around Church areas are spoiling the fair image of Kuwait. No religion tells you to disturb the peace of other religions and worshipers of other religions.

Most of the vulgar acts on female Church goers are systematically conducted when these females are leaving the Church and ending near KFC circle and opposite to KFC. The people involved in these vulgar acts activate their vulgarity when they notice the rush of the females leaving the Church and accumulating near and opposite to KFC. Taking advantage of this crowded rush, the vulgar non-Chritian males molest, pinch, hug and catch hold of the females and also rob them of their purses and other valuable golden ornaments. Even in the Church Compound some of these people rob the worshippers. It all happen because of too many people crowding the Church and surrounding areas. I could at one particular time in the evening easily hear a voice of a Goan lady screaming in Konkani saying, ‘Mae ge maje, ago eka poiyat to maka ghott dhorta, kon go dukor ho!!.” These people who indulge in harassing the females are expert in this activity. Yearly twice they indulge in molesting in such a manner the females mainly Christians coming from the Church. When I notice such dirty acts committed on our Christian females whatever nationalities they may have, my Christian feelings are getting hurt. All those males who indulge in such dirty acts and still call themselves as decent people are the worst traitors and most dirty people..

This was not the only time such crimes are committed on Christian ladies by non-Christian rowdies but this a normal happening every year done on Christmas and Easter Days. The victims are Christians mainly Catholic females from Goa, Mangalore and Philippines. Earlier I brought this to the notice of Ex Parish Priest Fr. Gabriel Dias a Goan priest attached to the Cathedral and now settled in Canada. Listening to me, Fr. Gabriel while preaching in the Church advised the females coming to the Church to avoid moving in certain routes. Can the present Church authorities advice similarly from the Church so that no untoward incidents take place on 1st January? I feel Church leaders are obligated to guide and advice our people on this matter not once but hundred times till our folks are educated. The image of Christianity in general and Catholicism in particular is at stake because of such happenings.

A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.

VALMIKI FALEIRO'S NEW BOOK "PATRIOTISM IN ACTION" IS NOW AVAILABLE.

"PATRIOTISM IN ACTION":

Goans in India’s Defence Services 'With Foreword by Gen SF Rodrigues, PVSM, VSM, ADC (retd) former Chief of Indian Army Staff and Governor, Punjab & Administrator, Chandigarh UT

Copies now available at: GOA: Literati (2277740), Other India (2263306), Broadway (6647038), Mandovi (2427904), Noel D’Silva & Associates (9823120454 /9096781714), Confidant / Golden Heart Emp (2732450), David & Co (2730326), Vardaan (9527463684)SERV / RETD Def Offrs in Goa: O/o Sainik Co-op Hse Bldg Sty, Def Col, Porvorim (2417288)MUMBAI: David & Co (22019010) PUNE: Manney’s (26131683), Popular (25678327) BENGALURU: Narayan (22865800) DELHI: Ritana (24617278)

ONLINE (worldwide delivery):http://www.ritanabooks.com/, http://goa1556.goa-india.org/

IS CHOOSING AND DROPPING MINISTERS STILL CM's PREROGATIVE?

By Nisser Dias 23rd Dec 2010
Is choosing and dropping ministers still CM’s prerogative?

Last week Goa chief minister Digambar Kamat was experiencing a storm in the tea cup or rather a little discomfort with some of his cabinet colleagues coming together to plot a scheme to stop him from reshuffling the council of ministers. Among those who got together were those who were supposed to be directly affected as their names figured in the list of minister to be dropped. At the same time there were others who would be indirectly affected of getting their kith and kin elected at the next assembly hustings with the inclusion of a controversial MLA.

Digambar Kamat since becoming a chief minister has weathered a couple of coups to topple him but every time he has managed to cling on to his ‘Kodel’. Of course all his visits to numerous religious places and also to the High Command must be paying dividends. But out of the entire ploy one question has emerged, ‘is choosing and dropping ministers still the chief minister’s prerogative’? Or does he take and executes orders from High Commands of different political parties? Or does he crumble under the pressures and tantrums from his own ministers?
The controversy seems to have started with some communiqué from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) to reinstate tainted Benaulim MLA in the cabinet by dropping one of their own. I can say that Mickky Pacheco did impress his party bigwigs with his birthday bash last week. He seems to have subtly convinced them that only he can increase some more seats in the assembly for the party provided he is appointed as a minister. And that got the party bosses working overtime to induct him into the cabinet.

To counter this move NCP ministers Jose Philip D’souza and Nilkant Harlankar sought the support of some Congress heavy weights to pressurize the chief minister not to upset their applecart. However to their bad luck the local NCP leadership used to the opportunity to try to discipline the mavericks and demanded their resignation. As of now the two ministers have refused and even the chief minister has refused to give in to the NCP demand to drop the ministers. Of course Kamat has sought time to seek advice of his high command.
Undoubtedly Digambar Kamat is also playing his game very shrewdly as I do not think he wants Mickky Pacheco in his cabinet specially after the latter upon being released from jail bad mouthed the former in the assembly. I feel the chief minister if he has any credibility should stick to his guns and oppose Benaulim MLA’s inclusion in the cabinet as Crime Branch and CBI are investigating his alleged involvement in alleged culpable homicide and money laundering respectively. These are serious crimes and the government should give an opportunity to these agencies not only to investigate but to present their cases before the court without fear. Once anointed as a minister he would enjoy a huge clout which could be used to influence witnesses.

Why would the former Tourism minister who has bad mouthed the chief minister and demanded an investigation against him want to be included in his cabinet? I did not elaborate that along with minister-ship comes a horde of benefits which the Benaulim MLA have missed for almost six months and without power he is feeling like fish out of water. I do not think any likeminded Goan would want a disgraced and jailed MLA as a minister.

Be that as it may, can other ministers plot to force the chief minister not to drop or induct any minister? That NCP ministers were trying to safe guard their position can be understood. What was the reason for the Alemaos and Monseratte to extend their support to those ministers on whom the axe was dangling? And that too when till recently PWD minister Churchill Alemao was publicly demanding that Congress go it alone at the next assembly election.

For the Navelim legislator keeping Mickky Pacheco away from the cabinet is an advantage as it makes Churchill’s job much easier of getting his daughter Valanka elected from Benaulim constituency. If Benaulim MLA is inducted as minister then he will surely be a thorn in PWD minister’s side.

But the chief minister seems to be keeping his cards close to his chest by refusing to be impulsive. These few months before the elections is very crucial to all the MLAs specially the ministers who wants to accumulate as much spoils of the position to woo the voters in the next election. Every politician is trying to form coteries or groups either by fielding family members and relatives otherwise close associates so that they have leverage to bargain before formation of a new government. Digambar Kamat knows this very well and he lets the carrot dangle till such time he can get a good bargain for himself.

Finally a parting shot, Goans just celebrated Goa’s 50 years of Liberation from the colonial rule of the Portuguese. Sadly though our politicians especially those elected to the Legislative Assembly have done much more damage to Goa in 50 years which the Portuguese could not do in 450 years. It is time now the Goa brethren along the length and breadth of the world join hands to destroy our own enemies and free Goa from the bondage of the 40 politicians who repeatedly get elected using money and muscle power to carry further destruction of the state. Till such time Goans do not come together to destroy the scourge our future and that of our generations to come is doomed.

Send your comments/reactions to nisserdias@gmail.com
Or SMS 9422437029)
(Nisser Dias writes a regular column in GT on Thursday. This article was published in GT today)

LAYERS OF CORRUPTION.

Layers Of Corruption

http://blogs.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Outraged/entry/layers-of-corruption

Here is a nice and factual article on corruption in India whichexplains the periphery, the depth and the conduits of corruptionrampaging India which is very much applicable to Goa, as Goa isalready become a hub if not the pinnacle of corruption and fraud.

About a year ago a clerk was caught, succumbing to corruption in Goa,it was all news about our governments efforts to do away with themonster of corruption but has anything happened in reality ? On thatparticular day I had written about how a herd of corrupt elephants areallowed to go on rampage whereas a corrupt fly is drowned in a cup ofhot tea.

Once in a long while some poor soul is made an example of but theelite are untouchable, the above article shows us why.

I know Florian Bab has said a lot about the system, has a lot more tosay too and I am sure he will continue saying it. What a pity ! Goa isnot listening. Kaash hum log samej lete, aaj hi naubat nahim aati.

Freddy Agnelo Fernandes.

Goans - Making a Difference: Book Released on Goa’s Liberation Day

By Gasper Crasto

Kuwait: Goa after the Liberation, 50 years on, an editorial by the publisher Hazel Fernandes, briefly sums up the five decades which Goans have encountered since the Portuguese left after 451 years and bade goodbye to the tiny state of India in December 1961.

Goans, as we know from history, have been migrating to better pastures, outside Estrada de Portuguese (Portugal India) and it is uniquely recorded that Goans have been to Kuwait and other parts of the Gulf region in particular since the mid-1940s.

At the official release of the first edition of the book entitled ‘Goans – Making a Difference’, the dignitaries headed by the President of Goan Overseas Association of Kuwait, Raymond D’Sa, was full of praise for the initiative taken by Hazel Fernandes to present the book to mark this glorious occasion. Among those who attended were a wide spectrum of personalities from the press fraternity, and internet media.

The program commenced with Gaspar Almeida doing the honors of introducing the publisher's team, and a brief on the book. He expressed his proud feelings that this publication is yet again another first that Goans in Kuwait have achieved, which dwells on the individual efforts and achievements towards their success in the professional lifestyle as well as what they do to the community. "We have to support the efforts of all, whether they are government officials or technocrats as we move forward for the betterment of Goa and Goans".

A wide range of issues from Goa’s Freedom Movement, History of Goa, Reflections on the eve of Liberation Day, St. Francis Xavier, Festivals of Goa, Goa Hindu Festivals, Goa Muslim Festivals, Goan Culture, A Fat Goan Wedding, the Carnival, Goa Music, Goan Food, Goa Water Spots, the Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Goa Spice Plantations, Sao Joao Fest, Goa Tourism, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Konkani essays which included Views and Opinions, Kuwait and Goans, the ever popular Goan statesman and NRI Commissioner Eduardo Faleiro, Goans in Kuwait, News Media, Goans in Kuwait, personalities in Kuwait from a wide spectrum of sports, theatre, artistes, writers, teachers, doctors, commercial professionals, the youngest pilot, Goa’s young entrepreneurs in the IT and food trade, up to the recent mega international event - Global Goans Convention 2010 held in November 2010 in Kuwait, takes pride of place.

“It’s a collector’s item featuring some of the respected personalities among us in Kuwait, it is my desire to see more editions in the near future,” said Navelim Youth Centre President Agnello A.S. Fernandes.

Due to the overwhelming response, the publishers and the team is set to have a second edition in the first quarter of 2011. The attendees at the release programme also included Raymond Pereira, Neeta Fernandes, Norman Noronha, Tony Viegas, Rewon Gomes, Raymond Pereira, Sunoj Nambiar IIK, Gasper Crasto, Roshan Loreno, Mario Fernandes, Anthony Raymond, Manager of Darbar Restaurant, Cajetan Pereira [United Friends Club], Hazel Fernandes, Domingos Araujo [Kala Mogui Kuwait], Jacon Fernandes, Esperanca Crasto, among others, representing a wide spectrum of Goans and the Indian community involved in the banking, finance, trade and commerce, media, and other professions.

Many came forward on the dais and expressed pleasure in this unique book.

The overwhelming support expressed by Kuwait’s leading business enterprises as well as prominent Goan supporters like Souk VIP Centre, UAE Exchange Co., Sanjiv Kumar, Albano Pinto, Taal Restaurant, Oriental Insurance/Bader Al Mulla & Bros Co., Pascal B. Pinto, Oriental Restaurant, Nazareth Brothers, Jacob I. Fernandes [Colva United Centre], English Optics, Fidelis Fernandes [Kuwait Goan Association], Myra-Joel-Monica Elvira-Joseph D’Souza, AlRashed International Shipping Co., and Caesar Holidays (Caesars Travel Group), made the publisher's job much easier. Among the writers whose English and Konkani contributions are included in the book include Lambert Mascarehnas - former editor of Goa Today magazine, Dr.Joe D’Souza, Lino B. Dourado, Gasper Crasto, Pio Esteves, Norman Noronha, John Aguiar, and Gaspar Almeida with still photography of the post and pre-liberation of Goa era as well as the flora, funa and natural bounty of scenic tourist state of Goa.

Raymond D'Sa expressed his views that the concept of putting forward profiles of Goans in Kuwait and their organizational capabilities through the various cultural, sports, arts, and literally activities undertaken by their associations for a common understanding of friendship and promoting Goa's rich and diversified cultural goals. "I am impressed with the quality and content of the book and expressed his full support to continue this good work and bring out the next edition, while he congratulated the team involved in the publication", he concluded in his short speech.

A sumptuous dinner and thanksgiving prayers winded up the special event held at Hotel Kuwait Continental on 19th December 2010 and everyone took the opportunity to personally exchange season's greetings. To obtain your limited edition copy, email: goaworldtoday@gmail.com , fernsfernandeshazed@yahoo.com .

Photos by: Rewon Gomes

ELVINO RODRIGUES - REPLY TO GODFREY GONSALVES.

After reading subject article by GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES , one of the item reminded me of an incident it happened some years back. There was All India Konkani Samelan at Sanklli and Late Dr. Rebello took me along for attending this samelan where I introduced my self as member of Kuwait Konknni Kendr from Kuwait. During the recess time, I took some courage to confront/question in our meeting with Mr. Tomazinho Cardozo then was a strong member of Goa Congress, I asked him why Dr. Willy D'Souza, then Leader of Goa Congress ( a break away faction of Indian National Congress) did not recommend Konkani in Roman Script also while making Official Language of Goa? to which he told me it was not done so as you know the Politicians.

It is worth reminding, although Goa Congress was a rebel faction of Congress at that time, INC leadership at Delhi had a soft corner and still respected and considered Goa Congress Leadership as representatives of Roman Script lovers mostly from Christian population and therefore Dr. Willy was specially summoned to Delhi to know what was his intention towards making the Konkani as official language of Goa and what scripts was to adopt. The devil-traitor took charge of Dr. Willy's soul that time and he agreed and accepted the Devanagri script only instead of agreeing the Roman Script also. That time the INC leaders must have remembered what Nehru have said about Goans after India took over Goa i.e. "Ajib heim he logh Goa-ka".

Delhi Congress Leadership has deliberately summoned Dr. Willy even though they broke from IN Congress and formed a new party called Goa Congress because they have love and sympathy towards Goans of Romi lovers and not to do injustice to this faction by not accepting the Roman Script and making only Devanagri script as the official language of Goa.

I strongly believe that had Dr. Willy recommended and strongly supported the Roman Script, INC leaders who were ruling India at that time would love to agree so because that was the reason they specially called Willy to Delhi even though he was a rebel Congress leader. Goans who wanted the Roman script also to be accepted as script of official language lost their very dear cause only because of Goa Congress and their leadership.

Mr. Tomazinho who now think he is a fighter for Roman Script had no acceptable response to my question and instead he told me this is politics and anything can happen in politics no matter how much dear is the cause for Konkani Roman Script lovers. And I smelt rat in his response. Enemy of Konkani in Roman Script to be one of the scripts of the Official language of Goa may not be only the Devanagri Sript stalwart but Dr. Willy and Goa Gongress leaders themselves.

Roman Script lovers should therefore hold the leaders of Goa Congress specially the Christian MLAs fully responsible for this treason. It is because of them we lost a very dear cause, cant this be changed at this stage or does it require a revolution?

Thanks.

Elvino Rodrigues,
Navelim - Goa.

FOR THE CAUSE OF ROMI KONKANI.

Twenty four years ago when the youthful Floriano Vaz a ST from Gogol Fatorda Salcete Goa India was shot dead at noon near his home at Gogol; it was BBC's then correspondent Mark Tully who reported the news at 1700 hrs.on the BBC radio news channel well before the local and national news agencies.

That sparked a near riot in the commercial city of Margao. That the cause was linked to the ongoing agitation for recognition of Konkani as the official language was obvious .

But the immediate cause for this dastardly provocation was a tiff between Mr Vaz's ex employer the son of a prominent Goud Saraswat Brahmin industrialist from Comba, Margao -- The CRP personnel who fired the fatal round on Vaz was mainly at the behest of the son of this industrialist who was allegedly prevented from proceeding in his white FIAT car (whose number plate was later changed to avoid implication ) as the road was blocked by boulders by Vaz and his youthful supporters.

Well this turned out to be the first martyr for the cause of Konkani. The others were killed in Neura Tiswadi (Ilhas) Goa and a memorial was immediately installed in front of the Church of St Lawrence at Agacaim Ilhas Tiswadi Goa.

But what is the politics behind the erection of a memorial for late Vaz at the Fatorda junction as demanded by the ex- Chief Minister and present PWD Minister Mr Churchill Alemao?
It is understood that the GSB's are all aware that the real culprit for causing the death of late Vaz was none other than the member of their own class and community. The area where the proposed memorial is planned just over 500 meters from the Chowgule College junction and happens to be the new residential township of GSB's who have moved lock stall and barrel from Comba in Margao to self contained bungalows near the Gogol Mutt and within the periphery of the College and Gogol garden.. The area is now known as Vidya nagar.

Therefore obviously they fear that the memorial if erected will haunt them with memories of that fateful day and this constituency being mainly dominated by the ST's there would be reason for provocation and ill feelings against the GSB's at a later date.

Hence the opposition to have any memorial at Old Market (porposed earlier ) or at the Gogol junction both in the Fatorda Assembly.

Incidentally Mr Alemao who alongwith Mr Atanasio (Babush) Monserate the Minister for Education (who is celebrating his birthday today ) had promised to pursue the issue of grant of official recognition to Konkani written in the Roman script at the hustings have now remain silent. The present Official Language act of 1987 grants official status only to devanagari as specifically listed at item 2 (c) of the OLA 1987. Hence deletion of the words (in Devnagari) by an amendment would have solved this issue making -- unity in ONE language and diversity in script -- as a feature to unite Goans more so being the 50th year of Liberation of Goa.
But the reason why these politicians and several others who depend on the Catholic vote bank mainly in the Old Conquests of Salcete Mormugao and Ilhas (Tiswadi) develop cold feet is because the Church heirarchy in Goa essentially a Brahmin led heirarchy which ranks highest in the decision making body has failed to press for the need for recognition to Konkani in the Roman script.

A little probing led this writer to realise that the Catholic Brahmins post Liberation forced their progeny to learn Konkani in devanagari for fear that they would be branded as antinationals for their adherence to Portuguese regime. Several Catholic Brahmins had even adopted Indian names for their progeny for the same reasons.

It is not that they have any love for the devanagiri except the fear of being ostracised by the majority Hindu community post Liberation. The Church heirarchy also belongs to this school of thought and hence despite the fact that they use Roman script for all the religious rites etc they dread to support the cause of recognition to Konkani in Roman script.

Ironically such is the hypocricy adopted by the Church heirarchy that while they support a collective floated by GSB's viz Catholic for Devanagiri even though most of them do not know to read and write Konkani in devanagri they have allowed non Brahmin Catholic priests to fully support the cause of Konkani in Roman script. Notble among them who has spared no efforts to harp for recognition to Konkani in Roman script is Fr. Conceissao of Carambolim Church .
The present CM Mr Digamber Kamat who short of official recognition to Konkani in the Roman script is prepared to do any thing for Konkani and its usage in Roman script as has been his enthusiam shown in the sphere of "tiatr" therefore it is a challenge to elected representatives of the likes of Churchill and Monseratte to show their true love for the cause of their mother tongue.

It is not too late given that we are heading for mid term polls in the State while the BJP is at its lowest ebb --- if not elections in due course 18 month later in May 2012. Thus during the forthcoming winter session in January 2011 these Ministers could easily get a MLA from the ruling coalition either Mr Francis Silveira, Ms Victoria Fernandes or Mr Francisco Micky Pacheco to move an amendment to OLA 1987 and give a due place to Konkani in the Roman script in the Golden Jubilee year.

from the Gogol end
GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES,
BORDA, MARGAO,
403 602, GOA. (INDIA)+
91 98221 58584 (24 HRS)
gonsalvesgodfreyji@yahoo.co.in

LAND IS THE ROOT CAUSE OF ALL THE PROBLEMS IN GOA.

Land Is The Root Cause Of All The Problems In Goa.

On eve of the so called liberation of Goa, Chief Minister DigambarKamat finally spoke the truth when he said land is the root cause ofall the problems, both political and apolitical in Goa. Land is anasset that we Goans can ill afford to loose. Land is one commoditythat once sold is gone forever. A number of Goans for short term gainshave done away with the land that was handed down, through generationsto them by their forefathers and for the time being, may not regretbut there will come a time when posterity will curse their elders fortheir unforgivable actions.

It is open secret that our politicians before announcing the Mopaproject had purchased vast stretches of land around Mopa at throw awayprices and now stand to make a whack once the project is forced ontothe people of Goa. Huge areas of Cummunidade lands have changed handsvia our politicians, SEZ is another classic example by which we Goanshave been taken for a jolly good ride in the name of development. CRZtoo has been used to curtail the free flowing coastal Goans andpromote expansion of star hotels. Our politicians have made land theirprimary objective to climb the personal colossal financial pyramid.

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat has also promised to make Goa a rolemodel state in 50 years time, it’s been 50 years since the so calledliberation, Goa is already famous, as one of the most corrupt state inIndia, courtesy our corrupt Goan politicians, where crime andcriminals flourish with impunity, murderers and drug lords can come inand then disappear at will, law and order has been deteriorating bythe day. Road accidents on the rise, water problems a galore, powerfailures, more often than not. It would indeed take some doing by Diguand the people to follow, to make Goa a model state. It’s not animpossible task with able dedicated people at the helm, but with Diguand Company Goa is only heading for the inevitable.

So far in almost every land scams our politicians have been involveddirectly or indirectly they have had their hands in every land piethat’s baked in Goa, they just have a one point agenda to sell Goa tothe highest bidder irrespective of the public outcry. Chief Minister’schair is certainly a huge responsibility, that’s the reason we need aconstructive mind with a constructive foresight to be on the chair,where the buck stops. So far none have shown the will nor theinclination to work for the betterment of Goa and Goans.

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat has also initiated something called thedraft vision 2035, which he says will be kept open for debate, hope itdoes not turn out to be like the two RP’s, so far, from what we haveseen, Digambar’s vision, lacks vision, much to be desired, if notaltogether despised, as it is detrimental to Goa and Goans. Goa’s woesand problems have been the handy work of our corrupt politicians andland has been the centrifugal force in the eye of the storm.

Freddy Agnelo Fernandes,
Nuem, Cabo-de-Rama - Goa,
Dubai - UAE.

19TH DECEMBER TO MARK AS ROBBERY DAY.

Indian Military actually landed on Goan soil on 18th December 1961. We saw them in their innumerable Jeeps and Tanks early in the morning on 18th December 1961 approximately at 5.30 AM going to Aguada. First time in my life I saw Sardarjis with their beard and turbans and I was so terrified that I thought what I was seeing were not normal human beings but someone from the other planet, so much I was frightened to see them. I was young then doing my schooling in my village Portuguese school. During Portuguese time we were not accustomed to see such human beings having so different outlook as Sikhs. My one brother working for SESA Goa was stranded at Sircaim about whom we were very much worried while the other brother working for Goa Police was at home since he was a technical man at Panjim Headquarters and was not required for fighting the Bharati enemies. The distance between my house and the main Road was approximately 50 metres and next to the main road we had our paddy field. My father who had great admiration for Salazar and his strict laws in Goa was very sad to see Salazar’s rule in Goa is ending while my Goa Police employee brother was telling “now Goa will turn into a “Moula ani Chor Raj”. Very prophetic words. He made this remark because earlier he had been to Bombay where he witnessed how bad Indian rule was. Indians are not good rulers but good “Chors” and current “Chors” of Goa learnt this art from Indian “Chors”. Goa since December 19, 1961 was disgraced by the introduction of Bharati rules, tradition, culture and influx of non-Goans.


On the same day early in the morning while my father was going to check the flow of water in our paddy field, on the main road he was stopped by the Bharati Military Peronnel occupying the front Seat in the Military Tank. Since my father was wearing a white banyan, his fair body like that of Portuguese Paklo, attracted the attention of that Bharati Military man who thought my father was a Paklo too. He shouted at my father to stop there only. My father was afraid. To pacify that Indian Millitary man, my father immediately started to talk in Hindi. Then that Indian Military man stopped the convoy of Jeep and Tanks for few minutes to talk to my father. At home seeing from distance, we all were terrified mainly because of my father’s pro-Portuguese inclination. But my father did not show any leaning towards Portugal and went on answering all the questions posed to him by the Indian Military man. It was about 10 minutes conversation between my father and Indian Military while proceeding to Aguada where the major portion of Portuguese Military personnel posted. The questions posed to my father were:


1. First Question: Who are you? Are you an Indian or Portuguese? My father replied: I am a
Goan.
2. Second question: Where are you going so early? My father replied: Going to our paddy field.
3. Third question: Why are you wearing this poverty stricken Banyan? My father replied:
Because I am a poor man.
Then the Indian Military man said: Yes, we know the Portuguese Government has purposely kept you poor. Henceforth, you will not remain poor, your standard will be high under Bharati rule. Don’t worry, you will enjoy best of life in Goa under Indian rule.
4. Fourth question: What is the strength of Portuguese Military stationed at Aguada? How long it will take for our convoy to reach Aguada? And what about Chapora Fort? Is there any Military Portuguese posted there? Do you have any idea?

My father replied thus: There is nothing at Chapora. At Aguada around 200 Portuguese soldiers are stationed and it will take around 30 Minutes to reach Aguada from my place.


My poor father ignorant of Bharati Raj of “Chor” and cunning, out of happiness wrongly believing as Gospel Truth what Indian Military man told him, came home immediately even without checking the flow of water in our Paddy field, so much he was excited for the good days that will come on Goa. When he reached home, he was all smiling and in happy mood thinking of the better days to come on Goans especially poor Goans under Bharati rule. While going to our Paddy Field my father was saying Salazar Zindabad but while returning home he started saying Nehru Zindabad and Salazar Murdabad. Poor man my father!! He was fooled by Indian Military personnel. And who was he the Indian Military man? Where is he now? Alive or dead? God alone knows.



Tomorrow 19th December, Goa will be celebrating Liberation Day of Goa. What liberation? To hell with this liberation. It was NOT Liberation but it was a ROBBERY because on this day in 1961, Bharat Serkar of Nehru ROBBED MY BELOWED GOA and annexed it to his corrupt Bharat without taking into consideration our views. Goa was not Nehru's "Paiche Bens" to acquire it forcefully without our consent. A few Freedom Fighters were not the spokemen of Goa and Goans. Morarjee Desai was against using force to drive away Portuguese from Goa.



According to the landmark judgement delivered by India’s Apex Court, i.e. the Supreme Court, on 19th December 1961, Goa was NOT LIBERATED by Bharat but CONQUERED. One of the renowned Goans the then Principal of St. Joseph’s High School Arpora told the students in his class at Arpora that Goa was invaded by BHARAT and NOT Liberated while many others said on 19th December 1961 Goa as Goa was ROBBED by Bharat to destroy its genuine identity, this was what Nehru cunningly wanted. For some political reasons Nehru wanted to eradicate total identity of Goa. In view of this 19th December should be marked NOT AS LIBERATION DAY OF GOA BUT AS ROBBERY DAY OF GOA. All the genuine Goans who love Goa must oberve this day as the day of Robbery.


By all means Goa had to be liberated from Portugal but not the way it was done. Because of force used against Goa, the Non Violence doctrine preached by Bharat under Nehru was put into disgrace. World leaders accused India under Nehru for using violent method to drive away Portuguese from Goa. There was no need to use violence to exit Portuguese from Goa. Nehru was a crook. Without consulting Goans based in Goa he took unilateral action and when some world leaders accused Nehru for using force on Goa, Nehru was shocked and he took this shock very seriously leading to deteriorating of his health.


The rule of Bharat in Goa is a curse. Bharati administration in Goa is a shame. There is nothing good in Bharat and because it is so, all the top and low Bharatis are flooding in Goa making Goa as Ghantti Raj. The character of genuine Goan was destroyed by the Bharati Ghantti in Goa. Nobody trust a Bharati because he is selfish, crook, traitor and first class “Chor”. What is happening in Goa now is the result of forceful occupation of Goa by Nehru’s Congress. In order to lead a Maharjas Life, Congress stripped Maharajas of their doles and themselves turned into new Maharajas. In the name of Socialism they have amassed wealth by robbing poor citizens. In Goa every top Congressman is become a crorepoti by robbing the poor Goans. Goan Freedom Fighters are not interested in this robbery because they have already sold their sacrifices under Portuguese rule in Goa for Pensions and Tamrapatra. Their fights and imprisonment during Portuguese rule against Portuguese were purchased by the Government. For this reason they are keeping their silence over the rot that is going on in Goa now. Prof. James from Assonora, Bardez who himself suffered so much under Portuguese rule for being a genuine Freedom Fighter had no answer to this question when I met him a few years back.



Immediately following the takeover of Goa by Bharat, many of the Non Brahmin Hindus in my village were acting like Dadas, threatening Christians, firing crackers in front of the houses of Christians and Crosses and making rough statements against Christians and St. Francis Xavier as if Chritians were Pro-Portuguese and anti-Indians. Regretfully, all of them who were harassing Christians and talking against Christianity in my village died very miserably. I pity them and their families. They thought Bharati Raj means Hindu Raj for Hindus alone to rule over all others. They were ignorant because they equated India with Hindus. They did not know how the word India originated. They were communal in thoughts and deeds. Later on they all supported ZALACH PAIZE, i.e. Merger of Goa with Maharastra. They never realized the great contribution of Goan Chritians in fighting against Portuguese rule in Goa. To know more of the contribution of Goan Christians at regional and national levels they should read the latest book “PATRIOTISM IN ACTION” by Valmiki Faleiro.


A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.

RELEASE OF NEW BOOK "PATRIOTISM IN ACTION" BY VALMIKI FALEIRO

For the Unsung Heroes of Goa
For the Unsung Heroes of Goa
Published on: December 17, 2010 - 00:22

BY CLARA A RODRIGUES.

The unsung tale of the Goan officer is a cause worthy to call attention to. Goans have held formidable positions in both commissioned and non-commissioned ranks. Their proficiency in strategising has been instrumental in turning the tide of battles in favour of our motherland many-a-time.

The book, ‘Patriotism in Action: Goans in India’s Defence Services’, is an attempt by senior journalist Valmiki Faleiro to recount the acts of valour of these brave men of Goa. Not many know that there was a Goan from Mapusa who went to Mozambique and raised an army of his own and ruled over a vast territory. Goans have showed their might in forces abroad as well as in India.

What made you write a book cataloguing Goans who served in the defence services?

Goans are not aware of the contributions Goan’s have made to our motherland and her defence. Proportionate to population, the number of Goans in defence services was one of the highest among all the regional communities of India, comparable next to the Anglo Indians or Parsis only. In this book, I have written about 400 officers but there are still many more not covered in this book. There is more yet to be written. Another reason that got me started on this book was the incident where Wg Cdr Oswald MF de Abreu lost his life in an air crash. Not a single publication thought of highlighting the Goans who lost their lives in earlier air crashes.

You have a keen interest on matters with regards to the defence services. Comment.

My father served in the army. He had a dream that I too would follow in his footsteps. But I disappointed him (laughs). I became a journalist.

How did you do your research for this book?

In defence circles once you have one contact you stumble onto another. It is like a multiplier effect.From a time when there were many Goans in the defence to the present period where the count has nosedived.

Would you like to comment on the possible reasons for this decline?

Many Goans were in defence services as commissioned officers serving in the top brasses of the forces. Goans were present too in non-commissioned posts and file (soldier) ranks. Today, the number of Goans in the forces is dismal. The monetary rewards in the forces are lucrative yet not many Goans join. This is either because they have a wrong impression about life in the services or they are not aware of it. Do you think the state government has a role to play in encouraging young people to join the forces? The state can certainly play a crucial role in this regard. Except in Goa, there is a pressure group in every region and community to encourage people to join the services. This group lobbies at the centre, state and with authorities for better facilities for these personnel serving in the forces.

You have called the Goan officer ‘orphans’. Explain.

As I said, there is no pressure group in Goa to lobby for the cause of the presently serving Goan officers. The serving Goan officers are left to fend for themselves. Post retirement do these Goan officers live in Goa? Not many live in Goa. Most reside in Pune. There the weather is supposedly pleasant (smiles). Many also live in Bangalore, Kolkata, some have moved abroad, too.

Could you tell us the names of some of the major battles where Goans have played a stellar role?

Goans took part virtually in all major operations. Many even died martyrs. A Goan, Gp Captain Sidney Basil Noronha was the first Indian air warrior to be awarded a Maha Vir Chakra. The second Goan to be decorated with this medal was Air C/Mshl Hrushikesh S Moolgavkar. The recent Goan martyr was Lt Narendra A Mayekar. He was awarded posthumously.

In the 1971 Bangladeshi War, Goan officers played an important role. Elaborate.

When we remember the 1971 Bangladeshi War, everyone only talks of the role Sam Manekshaw played. Although he took the primary decisions, few know that three Goans implemented the final strategy and the actual execution of the plan on all the three fronts. The war was almost laid in the hands of the Goans.

In the prologue of your book you say that one of the reasons that compelled you to write was that you wished to highlight the role of Catholics in the Indian forces. Comment.

I do not like making comparisons. But I am forced to. Catholics are as patriotic as the Hindus. The sustained campaign by the MGP and its cohorts years ago, which said that Catholics are unpatriotic and should be deported to Portugal, was the unjustified condemnation of a community that has done so much service for the motherland.

(Valmiki Faleiro’s book ‘Patriotism in Action: a book about Goans in India’s Defence Services’ will be released on December 18 at 5.30 p.m. at Goa Chitra Amphi-Theatre, Benaulim. The book launch will be preceded by a panel discussion on the author and the book).

CELEBRATION FOR 50TH YEAR OF LIBERATION.

Today, I suddenly remembered about Mohd. Jinnah, the man responsiblefor the division of India, along with Nehru, who, has also been thechief architect of the prevailing misery in Goa. During my collegedays way back in the late 70’s I read about Jinnah who was taken tocourt during India’s freedom struggle. The British judge irritatedwith his attitude, stubbornness and lack of respect, waving his fingerat Jinnah said “I see a fool in you” and Jinnah with a bow said “In that case I must be the mirror”.


Yes indeed ! As our Political elite led by Chief Minister DigambarKamat are all waiting for the “gong”, to start off the celebrations ofthe so called 50 years of liberation, they have to look withinthemselves and see what their conscience reflects in the mirror.Yes indeed ! In 50 years a lot can be achieved. As shown by theJapanese, more than a decade ago, Nagasaki and Hiroshima mourned fortheir dead and the destruction that was caused by the first two atombombs 50 years earlier and within 50 years both these devastatedcities look like any other Japanese cities. What an achievement it hasbeen ! yes indeed ! There is a vast difference between the Japanesemantra and the Goan mantra and it espouses the will to do and performon the part of the Japanese and our apathy or indifference to do andperform.


It’s been 50 years since the Portuguese left Goans shores, was thatliberation ? No my dear Goans, it wasn’t liberation, it was annexationby force, India forced it’s self on us, it wasn’t a choice as therewas no referendum like the opinion poll, our Goan leaders fell forconniving moves of some of the then Indian leaders and inherited theirlegacy of corruption and communalism. Goa was never a part of theIndian union prior to the arrival of the Portuguese, as there was noIndian union then, there is history to prove it, neither were we partto the Indian Constitution, so why did Goa become a part of India post 1961 ?


Fifty years of what are our politicians celebrating ? Goa’s freedomfrom dictatorship to the subjection to India, victims of their pseudosecular democracy ? What has Goa achieved as a result of it’s freedom? How much has the basic Goan quality of live improved ? Has the basicsituation changed or even improved in any way since 1961 ? At leastprior to 1961, we were Goans in Goa, living in security, today we arebecoming outsiders in our own land, living as insecure as a new bornbaby, as a matter of fact we have reversed our time machine to the eraof lawlessness. Goa is being mutilated and disembodied, even more withevery passing year. Why are the promises made by Nehru not fulfilledeven after fifty years ?


It is our culture, customs, traditions, festivals, occupations,hospitality, our very way of life and above all our language thatestablishes our unique identity, which is certainly different from therest of India and well respected around the world. The over fivecenturies of Portuguese rule had to have it’s effects on the lives ofGoans and that is the reason why Nehru had to promise Goa specialstatus to safeguard this unique identity.



Over the years due to the non implementation of this promise and thegreed of our own politicians, our unique Goan Identity has beendiluted and continues to dilute further, as Goa becomes a paradisesought after by the affluent as well as the downtrodden along withall the most wanted, from all over India and the rest of the world,flocking down to Goa in hoards with little or no thought at all.



The limited mining legacy left by the Portuguese has been turned intoa free for all orgy, butchering the very innards of Goa, that feedthem, whereas the pristine beaches have been taken over by drug lords,mafia and pimps. Crime and criminals have been feasting, courtesy ofthe politicians-police-criminals nexus.


Looking at the turmoil and chaos in Goa, we do need to look hardwithin ourselves, for our part in this degeneration of Goa through ourapathy and our inaction. In truth, it is we who are contributing tothe slow and agonising death of Goa, we should not be celebrating butinfact mourning for the 50 years of corrupt and communal ideologiesthat were forced on us through their pseudo secular democracy byIndia.


As I see the political elite all decked up for the celebration, I feelit’s utter shame and disgrace for Goans to celebrate 50 years of thisliberation that isn’t and that never was and will never be.
I wonder, what will our politicians see as a reflection of their conscience inthe mirror ? Epitomes of humanity or a disgrace to mankind ?


Goa !Take your pick.


Freddy Agnelo Fernandes.

LAND LOSERS IN GOA ARE NOT LIVING IN FOOL'S PARADISE MR. CHIEF MINISTER.

By Nisser Dias 16th Dec 2010
Land losers are not living in fool’s paradise Mr. Chief Minister


Very recently chief minister of Goa Digambar Kamat made some grand announcement that his government would pay land losers compensation at the market rate. For politicians it is very easy to make such comments not only beforehand but even before application of mind. Of course politicians are known to resort to rhetoric to appease the masses and also for votes. But when statement involving crores and crores of exchequers money is made, people immediately realize that the politician (in this case the chief minister) is trying to pull wool over their eyes.
The question before us today is can this government afford to pay land owners whose land has been acquired at the market value. What has necessitated such a statement is government’s overwhelming greed to acquire land in the name of development and the growing opposition from land losers to part with the land. Basically the rate that the government awards to the land losers is meagre compared to the astronomical market value. People have to approach the courts to enhance the compensation paid to them by the government.


But in the recent years, ministers saw an opportunity to amass wealth by indiscriminately acquiring land and leasing it out to corporate houses, industrialists and even to real estate developers and builders. Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Golf courses, IT parks, Food processing units, Cricket stadium, and Mopa International airport are few such examples where government tried to acquire land for personal benefits.


People of Goa saw through the designs of the government and started agitating at each and every project that was sanctioned in the state. Recently their stand was vindicated by the High Court when it observed that proper procedure was not followed in allotment of huge tracts of land for SEZs. Elected representative also lent their support to people but only where they did not stand to gain. For example development of IT Habitat at Dona Paula was stopped for whatever reasons, then before the general election in 2006 some politicians strongly objected to an airport at Mopa and six laning of the national highway but today have done a complete volte facie. Due to the self-indulgence of politicians, the government is not leaving any stone unturned to acquire more and more land thus agitating Goans and facing their wrath.


The chief minister Digambar Kamat saw that people of Goa would not allow widening of the national highways and in a bid to pacify or more specifically to deceive them announced that the government to compensate them at market rate. Let us first understand how government arrives at a price to be paid to land losers in ordinary circumstances. The collector of the particular district collects sale statistics from the mamladar and sub registrar of the properties to be acquired. Based on the lowest sale deed he works out the modalities and finally comes with a rate that is condemnable. Ultimately what the land losers receives is a pittance. Ironically the collector has absolutely no knowledge of land valuation and worst still is the fact that qualified government land valuers are never consulted on this issue. And in the committee that is being formed to determine the market value of land to be acquired Collectors of both the districts Goa are named as members. What justice can the Goans get from these two officials when it is well know that they are the puppets in hands of politicians? To my mind they will adopt the same system that is currently being used by them or in hindsight decide on individual basis for personal benefits or at the behest of the politicians.


Be that as it may, what will be criteria adopted to fix the market value of the land that is being acquired. For example on a stretch of land of one kilometre adjoining the highway – say part of it is developed with grocery stores, pharmacy, hospital, ATMs meaning local business activity while the other stretch is still yet to be developed, how will the committee decide the market value of this stretch of land. Is it going to value the stretch with business activity higher than the other? The owner of the undeveloped stretch of land in his wisdom must have kept it undeveloped with the thought that in near future when land gets scarce he might get much higher price. Then how will the committee compensate the developed stretch of land, will it assess each and every business enterprise at the present market value per se or will it assess their profits for the next ten years and then fix the market value? The government has to address these issues first.


Then comes the question of period of time that the government is going to take to pay the compensation for land along the National Highways along the length and breadth of Goa. If there is a delay in prompt payment will the government pay the interest. Given our state finances which are not very healthy. I am saying this because just last week policemen had a tough time getting their salaries. The bank simply refused to accept salary cheques to credit their salaries. Police personnel were forced to get endorsement from the state government’s accounts department only then salaries were released.


Then there are plenty of cases where the government is yet to release funds for land that is already acquired. Worse still is the fact that victims of natural calamities in the state and victims of last year’s Canacona floods are yet to receive compensation from the government. There are hundreds of mediclaim applications pending before the government. Payments of these are kept in abeyance because the government does not have adequate funds to meets these demands. Less spoken about the pension scheme the better it is. So the question how will Digambar Kamat government generate the type of money to pay land losers at market value. The price of paying market value for land in Goa will be so high that it will override the cost of widening the national highways passing through Goa. Can Goa government sustain such a huge financial burden especially when it is yet to implement the sixth pay scales in all the government departments?


In conclusion does the chief minister Digambar Kamat’s announcement has the backing of the cabinet? Has it been agreed in the cabinet or is it that the chief minister is talking in the air.
For a moment let’s grant him that he has the cabinet sanction for the decision to pay market value to land users. Firstly will he be able to clear all the cases before completion of his term. He might issue awards to all the land losers but will the next government if not headed Digambar Kamat honour it? Chief Ministers should realise that state finances are not their personal kitty to dole out money as and how they want. Lok Ayukta might not have not come to force, but there are enough agencies to stop the chief minister from using exchequers’ money in a foolish manner. Lastly Mr. Chief Minister none of the Goans are convinced with your statement as we are not living in a fool’s paradise.



Send your comments/reactions to nisserdias@gmail.com
Or SMS 9422437029)
(Nisser Dias writes a regular column in GT on Thursday. This article was published in GT today)

G.O.A. KUWAIT X'MAS GET-TOGETHER.

As announced in this forum earlier, Goan Overseas Association (G.O.A.) organised their get-together in Kuwait City at one of the popular venues.

Picture above top, seen the President of G.O.A. Raymond D'Sa gving one of the prizes to a young girl while one of the stalwarts of G.O.A. Julio Cardoso seen compeering the event.

In other 2 pictures are seen children's games in progres.

A. Veronica Fernandes,

Kuwait.

ETERNITY HOLIDAYS - New Airlines Office Opened in Kuwait City.

Recently in Kuwait City on 05th of this month new Airlines Office was opened, at Salhiya Tower,

Next to Raja Stores, Basement. It is known as ETERNITY HOLIDAYS.

In above first photo, you can see the people attending the inaugural function and in the second photo you can see all the details.

The managent asures to all its customers best of attention and services.

I wish them al the best.

A. Veronica Fernandes,

Kuwait.

UG'S "THE NIGHT BEFORE X'MAS 2010".

"United Goan Center " presents "THE NIGHT BEFORE X'MAS 2010" on 24th December 2010 from 9.00 PM Onwards, at Asia Ballroom, Kuwait city.

Please Contact Mr. Ronnie Lobo 66796153 / Mr. Joseph Gonsalves 94063749 for tickets or for any assitance.

Joseph,
UG - Kuwait.

SHASHIKALA KAKODKAR ON DR. AMBEDKAR.

Shashikala Asks The Youth To Emulate Dr Ambedkar

Former Chief Minister Ms Shashikala Kakodkar calls upon the youth topropagate the ideas and principles of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar, whatideas were propagated by her in her younger days and as the politicalleader of Goa ? Practice what you preach should be the norm followedby one and all. Instead of calling on the youth she should have beencalling on the present breed of politicians to follow Dr Ambedkar andchange their corrupt and communal ideologies. If at all a change isneeded, it the ploitical elite of Goa that need to be bathed andscrubbed till their skins of corruption and communalism are peeled offand grafted with the skin Dr Ambedkar's ideologies, as they themselvesshould have been role models to the youngesters who are looking uptothem for deliverance.

There is no doubt Dr Ambedkar was the epitome of honesty andintegrity, he also worked tirelessly for unity and the upliftment ofthe downtrodden, especially from the lower strata of society.

Has she followed in Dr Ambedkar’s footsteps to eradicate poverty andthe cast system, help the poor and the downtrodden ? If so, even afterher party being in power for over two decades, how come the people ofthe lower strata are still insecure and lag behind socially andeconomically ?
The love for the poor and the downtrodden should not be seasonal orwhen elections are round the corner, it should be professed andpracticed in all seasons.

Freddy Agnelo Fernandes,
Nuem, Cabo-de-Rama - Goa,
Dubai - UAE.

TO HELL WITH COMMUNIST CHINA.

NOBEL RIZE is the greatest award one can aspire to win in this world. There are many disciplines in which this award is given, one of them is for PEACE in the world. Among all the NOBEL Prizes, Peace prize carries more weight and since it carries more weight and importance, it generates more debates and critics also. The only time in the recent history no controversy erupted was when it was presented to Mother Theresa.

This year’s NOBEL Prize for PEACE went to Chinese Human Rightist and dissident Liu Xiaobo who is currently languishing in Chinese prison serving his 11 years sentence for being critic of Chinese Government’s anti-democratic policies and human rights violation policies. Three days back, on 10th of this month he was to receive his Prize personally but Chinese government prohibited him from going. Neither his wife was allowed to receive this prestigious award on her husband behalf because she is confined to House Arrest by the Human Rights Violators Chinese Government. In the absence of Xiaobo, his Chair where he was supposed to sit was kept empty and the Chairman of NOBEL Prize Committee placed the award on this empty chair. It was like a direct slap on faulty policies of Communist China.

There are two dangerous and unreliable nations in Asia that are ready to invade and annex other neighbouring nations, one is China and the other is India. China and India are two nations which are dreaming of acquiring more and more territories from other nations. India annexed Goa with its brute military might and China acquired Tibet. In China there is no democracy while in India it is democracy of “Chor”, it is only for name sake. In India there is little tolerance while in China it is a total dictatorship in the name of communism which forbids brute "dadageri". Communism as originated by its founder Karl Marx is Economics Sytem and NOT Government brutality against it citizens and on others. The greatness and beauty of Communism is destroyed by dictatorial regime of China where all the freedoms are suppressed. Liu Xiaobo is a liberal and lover of democracy, he is an opponent of dictatorial regime in China. For being an outspoken critic of dictatorial Chinese regime he was sentenced for 11 long years imprisonment.

NOBEL PRIZE committee this year found in him an appropriate candidate for this year’s Peace Prize and when it was announced Chinese Government condemned this decision of NOBEL Prize committee. China said Liu Xiaobo is a destructive man while the entire free world including NOBEL Prize committee said he is the victim of his free opinion. He was fighting thru his speeches and writings to bring democracy in China and because of this fight by using peaceful methods he had to face the wrath of the mighty atomic power China. Inspite of being such a powerful nation one small man Liu Xiaobo having no weapon in his hand is shaking China.

Communist China is on the verge of collapse and this collapse can come at any moment. Communism will never survive for a long time anywhere in the world, the same will happen in China either today or tomorrow or the day after tomorrow but surely it will collapse.

Having exposed to the entire world and coming under shame from all around the globe, China tried to retaliate against NOBEL Prize committee to make this Prize giving ceremony a flop. In this direction Communist Chinese regime in Beijing started putting pressure on world nations not to send their diplomats and emissaries to Oslo in Norwegian capital where this Prize giving ceremony was held three days back. With the exception of few tin pot nations, all the other nations including India sent their representatives to attend to this grand ceremony where 1000 elite guests attended and it went really smooth and grand. It was a big slap on Communist regime in China when overwhelming majority of the world nations refused to bow down to the dictatorial wishes of Beijing.

Communists are unreliable. During the Gulf War for the liberation of Kuwait, in United Nations debates and resolutions, China always abstained from voicing its opinion like cowards along with Russia. Both Russia and China are traitors. Russia in 1961 December when UN deciding to force Bharat of Nehru to withdraw its troops from invaded Goa, shameless Russia used its brute might to veto this decision thus allowing Nehru's Bharat to rob my belowed Goa which is crying now for its survival as it was in 1961..

Just before the last Olympic Games in China, Beijing used its political clout with all the world governments to suppress the movement for Free Tibet organized everywhere by Tibetans. India at that time like a “Chamcha” of China succumbed to the wishes of Beijing but this time at least showed it independence.

During his speech, when the Chairman of Nobel committee said “China must release Liu Xiaobo from the prison”, the entire Hall got up from their seats and with standing ovation for about 5 minutes continuously applauded the statement of the Chairman. Never in the recent past had I seen such a great and lengthy standing ovation given to any public figure. This shows how the world supports the democratic process and Human Rights in this world and in China especially. The power of NOBEL prize made the mighty economic and atomic power China a small Cockroach and if China does not change its policies then it will remain a Cockroach only.

Well done NOBEL PRIZE COMMITTE. Your decision said "TO HELL WITH COMMUNIST CHINA".

A. Veronica Fernandes,

Kuwait.