Casino vessels
I wish to draw the attention of the authorities concerned and the general public to the growing environmental and legal concerns arising from the excessive anchoring of casinos vessels in Mandovi River. What was once an open and scenic riverfront now increasingly resembles a congested commercial parking bay, raising both environmental and governance concerns. Mandovi is not merely a commercial waterway, it is an ecologically sensitive river system and a public trust resource. Natural resources such as rivers are held by the state in trust for the benefit of the public and cannot be exploited in a manner that compromises environmental integrity or public access. The large scale and prolonged anchoring of casinos vessels raises serious concerns under key environmental legislations. Any discharge of waste, disturbance of riverbeds or obstruction affecting aquatic biodiversity must be strictly monitored and regulated. The Mandovi estuary supports marine and freshwater species, and unchecked commercial activity may endanger fragile ecosystems and fish populations. Additionally, the obstruction of river view and public access undermines the principles of sustainable development. Economic activity cannot override ecological balance. Development must be environmentally compliant and socially accountable. It is imperative that the state pollution control board, Captain of Ports Department, municipalities and panchayat bodies review the existing permissions and impose clear limits on the number, size and location of such vessels.
Evaristo Fernandes, Merces
Police at religious places
Amid an ongoing tussle between the local villagers of Colva and Delhi-based builders over development-related issues, a recent incident involving the local police has sparked debate over protocol and the delicate balance between law enforcement duties and respect for religious spaces. It is learnt that the now transferred Colva police inspector, accompanied by several constables and dressed in full uniform, reportedly visited the parish church in Colva and held a meeting with the parish priest. The visit, it is alleged, was not preceded by an invitation from the church authorities. Places of worship, be that of any community, occupy a uniquely sensitive space in society. They are not merely physical structures but symbols of faith, community and constitutional freedom. The sight of uniformed police personnel entering a church, temple, mosque or any other religious institution without a visible law-and-order emergency or a formal request for assistance can send wrong signals. Uniformed police presence carries authority and sometimes intimidation. In peaceful circumstances, engagement through dialogue outside sacred premises may be more appropriate. If interaction with religious leaders is necessary, it can be arranged transparently and respectfully. This episode underscores the need for senior officials within the police hierarchy to reinforce clear operational guidelines. Sensitisation programmes can help officers understand the cultural and social importance that religious institutions carry. Both, police and religious institutions serve vital roles in society. The former uphold law and order, while the latter nurture spiritual and community well-being. Maintaining mutual respect between these pillars is essential. In sensitive matters, restraint is not weakness, it is wisdom.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Civic sense
The video of an elderly woman stopping a scooterist from using a footpath and refusing to step aside until the man takes the main road has gone viral on social media platforms. The elderly citizen has been applauded and praised for her civic sense, and many have described it as an exemplary act of civic responsibility. The irresponsible practice of two-wheeler riders using footpaths to bypass traffic blocks and putting pedestrians’ life at risk is a common sight in many of our towns and cities. The video of the elderly woman teaching basic civic sense lesson to the scooterist is not just a lesson for the rider but to everyone, especially drivers who take shortcuts, risking others’ lives. It is also a lesson for the civic authorities, including traffic personnel, to be more alert and not to forget their duty to serve the public and avoid putting life of citizens at risk.
M Pradyu, Kannur
Fighting corruption
India has ranked 91 out of 182 countries in the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2025 with a “jump” from the previous year’s 96. Also, its score is 39 as compared to 40 in 2024. The Transparency International (TI) ranks countries according to score ranging from 0 to 100 (highly corrupt to very clean). As per the TI, there are meagre institutional checks and balances to control corruption in India. The country was described as “dangerous” for journalists reporting on corruption. TI’s report is another warning to all stakeholders to get their acts together. That being said, it has been shown that any country that has failed to uphold its democratic fabric and faltered in preserving human rights has not done well in dealing with corruption.
Ganapathi Bhat, Akola
