Protect harmony
Goa has long been celebrated worldwide for its peaceful coexistence, communal harmony, and rich cultural diversity. It is unfortunate that political leaders repeatedly invoke religious sentiments in public speeches instead of addressing the state’s pressing challenges. Recently, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, while addressing a gathering at Old Goa, unnecessarily kicked up a controversy by referring to visits to temples and churches at the world heritage site. Such statements, even if casual, inject unnecessary religious undertones into public discourse. Similar observations during addresses to the faithful risk encouraging communal polarisation. Goa today grapples with rising unemployment, infrastructure deficits, inflation, environmental concerns, traffic woes, and the daily hardships of citizens. The government’s primary duty is to deliver welfare, development, and harmony for all communities, regardless of faith. Religious matters are best left to spiritual leaders.
Evaristo Fernandes, Merces
Vanishing paradise
In 1981, Goa’s beaches were quiet, clean, pristine, and largely untouched by mass tourism. Popular destinations like Calangute, Baga, Anjuna, Vagator, Arambol, Ashvem, and Keri in North Goa were known for their scenic beauty, peaceful surroundings, and laid-back charm. Visitors often stayed in local homes or rented rooms in old Portuguese villas, blending naturally with the simple coastal lifestyle. The beaches were sparsely populated, with fishermen and untouched natural landscapes defining the atmosphere. The serenity and ecological beauty of those days are difficult to find today. Yet, with sincere effort and responsible planning, much of this natural heritage can still be restored. While promoting tourism is important, preserving the natural beauty and ecological balance of Goa’s beaches must remain the top priority.
Rajesh Banaulikar, Arpora
Watermelon as ‘culprit’
The recent deaths of four members of a family in Mumbai shocked the country and triggered widespread fears about food poisoning linked to watermelon consumption. Initial suspicion fell on the fruit. However, forensic investigations later confirmed that they died due to zinc phosphide poisoning, a highly toxic rat poison and not because the watermelon itself had naturally turned poisonous. When the matter appeared to have died down, another disturbing incident emerged in Chhattisgarh, where a 15-year-old boy died after allegedly consuming watermelon that had been cut and stored for several hours. Three other children suffered vomiting and diarrhea, prompting authorities to suspect food contamination or improper storage. The two incidents have raised an important public health question of whether watermelons are safe to store and consume later. According to food experts, the fruit itself does not become toxic simply because it is cut. However, once sliced open, watermelon becomes vulnerable to bacterial contamination, especially in hot and humid conditions during summer.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Economy in doldrums
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged citizens to avoid buying gold, reduce fuel consumption, and minimise foreign travel to help conserve the country’s precious foreign exchange reserves. Such an appeal itself reflects the seriousness of the economic challenges facing the nation. In difficult times, every citizen must certainly be willing to make sacrifices in the national interest. However, leadership by example is equally important. The Prime Minister and his ministers should also demonstrate restraint in public spending and overseas travel. Over the years, the public has witnessed several expensive foreign visits by top leaders, often accompanied by large delegations and publicity-oriented events. Ironically, even after advising citizens to avoid foreign travel, the Prime Minister is reportedly scheduled to visit the UAE and several European countries this week. Should austerity measures apply only to ordinary citizens and not to those in power?
Tharcius S Fernando, Chennai
True development
This is with reference to the recent observations of the Supreme Court, led by Justice Surya Kant, against petitions opposing developmental projects in the name of environmental protection. While development is essential for national progress, it should not come at the cost of forests, tribal communities, and the environment. Across the country, trees are being cut, villages disrupted, and roads widened mainly to support commercial and industrial activities. Massive projects, including those in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, have raised serious ecological concerns. In many cases, local inhabitants and indigenous communities are displaced in the name of progress. Real development should mean uninterrupted electricity and water supply, quality roads, free education for children, and accessible healthcare in every village. Infrastructure that improves the quality of life of ordinary citizens deserves priority.
Jerry Fernandes, Saligao
