Valanka’s feat
Valanka Alemao’s election as president of the Goa Football Association marks a historic moment in Goa’s football administration, making her the first woman to occupy the prestigious position. Her elevation brings an opportunity to introduce fresh ideas and strengthen the administration of a sport deeply embedded in Goa’s cultural identity. The state’s football administration faces the challenge of reviving the game, strengthening grassroots development and creating a sustainable pathway for young players to reach the national level. Equally important is the need to improve the quality of domestic competitions and create opportunities for Goan footballers to progress to national and professional leagues. Women’s football deserves greater attention, with investment in coaching, infrastructure and competitive tournaments to encourage more girls to take up the sport. Valanka Alemao must prove that her leadership marks not merely a change of guard, but the beginning of a new chapter for Goan football.
Gregory Fernandes, Mumbai
The elusive bail
Nineteen undertrials are languishing behind bars at the Colvale jail despite being granted bail. They are deprived of freedom not because of being proven guilty, but due to their poverty as they are unable to arrange the required surety amount. This situation is a stark violation of the fundamental principle that every individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The liberty of a citizen is a cornerstone of justice. Bail exists precisely to uphold this liberty, allowing an accused to await trial outside the harsh confines of prison. However, when bail is contingent on a surety amount that poor individuals cannot provide, the very purpose of bail is defeated. Poverty should never become a barrier to freedom. Undertrial prisoners have not been convicted of any crime yet endure the severe disadvantages of incarceration. What is needed is a compassionate and pragmatic legal framework that recognises the economic realities of undertrials. Courts and policymakers need to innovate alternatives to monetary surety.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Packaged food safety
An NRI’s post on cancer warning symbol on noodle packets of an international brand sold in the USA and lack of such a symbol on the packets sold in India has been doing the rounds on social media. The criteria for assessing pre-packaged food products in India and the US are different. These noodle packets are legally permitted and proven safe for consumption in India. The US system of food safety laws is commendable. In contrast with the food safety laws of several foreign countries, the laws in India have many deficiencies. Most of the packaged food products target children and as a result children are susceptible to be adversely affected by unsafe food products. It is alleged food packets bear false information about ingredients and nutritional value: several of them contain artificial substances which cause health hazards. Compared to several other countries, India lacks mandatory ‘front of pack labelling’ warning symbols. Strict laws must be enacted and stringent punitive measures must be taken for food safety. Also, educating people about food safety prevents food-borne illnesses.
Venu GS, Kollam
Silent epidemic
India’s metabolic syndrome is becoming a silent epidemic affecting a far younger population than expected. Conditions like obesity, diabetes, hypertension, fatty liver, and abnormal cholesterol often develop without symptoms. Beyond lifestyle and environmental drivers of non-communicable diseases, we must examine an uniquely Indian dimension: the potential genetic and public health implications of caste-based endogamy. Prevention, early detection, and self-discipline are vital. While many follow a predictable trajectory—hypertension at 40, diabetes at 50, heart disease and bypass surgery by 58—others remain active into their eighties through preventive care. Routine, affordable, and accessible screening for young adults is essential. Furthermore, schools and workplaces must promote healthier food choices, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep. Ultimately, awareness, early screening, and a disciplined lifestyle remain key to preventing metabolic disorders.
Diomedes R Pereira, Corlim
Probity in public life
Former chief justice of India Sanjay Kaul rightly warned against executive intimidation. The Supreme Court, guardian of our Constitution, faces immense pressure. Youth-led protests have been demanding systemic change—tackling inflation, failing public services, healthcare affordability, and judicial access. Regrettably, anti-social elements infiltrate peaceful demonstrations. The government must neutralise these agitators rather than criminalising citizens. In India, transparency and accountability are replaced by personal attacks, cover-ups, and the erosion of checks and balances like the RTI. Suppressing peaceful protests at Jantar Mantar calling for resignations reveals grim ground realities.
John Eric Gomes, Porvorim
