Injudicious law
The recently passed Goa Jan Vishwas (Laws Amendment) Bill, 2026 seeks to decriminalise ‘minor offences’ such as illegal constructions, land misuse in waste management areas, encroachments and obstruction of public spaces. Under the bill, punitive provisions involving imprisonment for the range of specified acts will be replaced with fines. The idea is to allow enforcement to focus on serious crimes while still imposing graded penalties for lesser violations. While technical language in the bill treats these as ‘minor offences’ the ground reality is that in Goa such issues are not perceived as trivial by citizens and civil society groups. Illegal constructions, encroachments on road widening areas, and misuse of public and ecologically sensitive land have long been contentious, pressing matters for residents and activists. Reducing the offences to mere fines can dilute deterrence. In a well-functioning legal system, encroachment and property misuse are vigorously enforced to uphold public interest and environmental protection. Often fines alone do not stop repeat violations.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Duplicity on noise norms
The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has issued a clear warning that playing music beyond 10 pm is illegal under central noise pollution laws, with no exceptions for weddings, religious events, or private functions. Violators will face heavy fines and suspension of permits. However, this move seems to selectively target traditional Goan weddings, religious events, and private parties, all in the name of controlling noise pollution. Meanwhile, loud music continues to blast from casinos, nightclubs, and rave parties late into the night in areas like Panaji and the coastal belt, creating disturbances that go unchecked by the authorities. Why is this allowed, if not noise pollution? Goan weddings are deeply personal celebrations, often planned for months or even years, involving families and friends. Even the Portuguese rulers did not disrupt these cultural traditions. So, why is the current government imposing restrictions on them now?
Jerry Fernandes, Saligao
Constitution disrespected
Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi has once again disrespected the Legislative Assembly by walking out of the House and refusing to read the customary address, a key constitutional duty under Article 176. This marks the fourth consecutive time Ravi has failed to perform his duty, raising concerns about his disregard for the Constitution. The Governor’s address, given at the first Assembly session of the year, is one of the few responsibilities he holds while enjoying privileges at taxpayers’ expense. If an ordinary citizen violates the Constitution, they are often labelled as anti-national and punished. Yet, despite Ravi’s repeated violations, no action has been taken by the Modi government, which claims to uphold nationalism. Shouldn’t the same standards apply to the Governor? Given the repeated failure of Governors to perform their constitutional duties, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin’s call for a constitutional amendment to eliminate the Governor’s address at the start of each state’s Assembly session is justified.
Tharcius S Fernando, Chennai
Uphold free speech
This is with reference to the letter headlined ‘Character assassinated’ written by Rekha Sarin (NT, January 20, 2026). Yes, the musician AR Rahman holds full right to have his say on the environment of Bollywood or any matter, based on his practical experience. Coaxing him to almost rendering an apology of sorts for expressing his own opinion goes against the basic ethos of the Indian Constitution and democracy. In a democratic society, freedom of speech and expression must be allowed to reign supreme. I will speak out my views in a civilised way and accord the same privilege to others. And if somebody’s opinion is not agreed upon, then the counterpoints must be furnished in a sane civilised way through logic and reasoning. However, in a society which is increasingly turning intolerant towards opposite viewpoint or which differ from the ‘mainstream’, immediately the ‘offender’ gets trolled in most vulgar fashion with choicest epithets.
Kajal Chatterjee, Kolkata
Crorepati beggar
Officials involved in the beggar eradication campaign in Indore were shocked to discover a physically disabled beggar who had accumulated wealth worth crores of rupees through begging. This ‘crorepati beggar’ owns three homes, including one government-allocated house, three autorickshaws, and a car. Even more surprising, he gave loans to others and earned interest from them. Authorities are now investigating his bank accounts and cash holdings, as well as probing how he was approved for a flat under the PMAY scheme. This case raises important questions. On one hand, the beggar’s ability to accumulate wealth through begging is a fascinating case for economists. On the other, it highlights a serious lapse in the government’s due diligence when providing financial aid and housing support. Were they thorough enough in vetting applicants before disbursing assistance?
M Pradyu, Kannur
India isolated
Turkey has recently joined Saudi Arabia and Pakistan’s defence cooperation deal to create a sort of Asian NATO. Any attack on any one of these nations would be considered an attack on the other. You have the economically and militarily powerful aggressive China to the north. America has stamped huge tariffs on India. Remember, Saudi Arabia had been a reliable Indian ally to expose and isolate Pakistan and its support for terrorism on the global stage, not anymore. Nepal and China are busy redrawing their borders with chunks of the ceded Indian territory. All the consolidated gains of Nehruvian foreign policy and the steel of Indian diplomacy has gone down the drain. Do you know why? Because foreign affairs is not the priority; Prime Minister Narendra Modi understands zilch about it or for that matter anything to do with governance. What a fall for India, we stand completely isolated in the comity of nations and every neighbouring country is our enemy now.
Vinay Dwivedi, Benaulim
