Power billing needs transparency
The Goa government’s decision to suspend the rollout of smart meters, halt the imposition of load penalties, and urge citizens not to pay disputed electricity bills until proper verification is completed has come as a major relief to consumers across the state. The move was both timely and welcome, particularly in the wake of widespread protests against the unusually high power bills received by many households. At a time when citizens are already struggling with rising prices of essential commodities, food items, and fuel, any additional financial burden in the form of inflated electricity bills would have further strained household budgets. One issue consumers have raised time and again is the continued charging of consumers for the electricity consumed by streetlights, even when many of these lights remain switched on during daylight hours due to poor monitoring and maintenance. The majority of electricity users pay their dues honestly and on time. Instead of burdening consumers with inflated power bills, the authorities should focus their efforts on identifying and taking strict action against those involved in the pilferage of electricity. Power theft causes substantial revenue losses to the state. Equally important is the recovery of unpaid electricity dues from companies and commercial establishments where outstanding amounts may run into lakhs or even crores of rupees. Recovering such arrears would be a more effective way of improving the financial health of the power sector than targeting ordinary citizens. The government’s decision has provided immediate relief, but it should also serve as an opportunity to address deeper issues within the power sector and restore public confidence in the system.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Unequal justice prevails
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant narrowly missed being involved in a major accident when a car driven by an alleged drunk driver nearly hit the convoy. The incident occurred on June 11 night near Amona when the CM was proceeding to his Sanquelim residence. Five passengers were caught while the driver absconded but was later caught. He turned out to be a head constable! Reportedly, all have been arrested and are in custody (NT June 14, 2026). There is another account that the Deputy Collector let them off after obtaining a signed bond for ‘good behaviour!’ If true, why this kid glove treatment for an alleged drunk cop who was suspended in the past for his brushes with the law? Presently he is posted at Mopa airport, perhaps to give more wings to his daredevilry. Would a citizen be let off if s/he had not stopped, even if signalled by the cops, for the convoy to pass? The cops seem to be benevolent, forgiving and understanding with their own but go overboard with other drunken drivers (locals and tourists). A few days back some cops zealously filed an FIR against a young student who apparently dumped cardboard boxes on the side of a road. Being shamed by social media and intense quizzing by the cops, the humiliated youngster sadly shot himself in his house. There appears to be a case of different yardsticks for those in power and those who are not or do not have influence.
Sridhar D Iyer, Caranzalem
Lessons from tragedy
The tragic death of 23-year-old Mapusa resident Samuel Garvyn de Bragança, who allegedly took his own life on June 5 after a video purportedly showing him throwing garbage on a public road was recorded and widely circulated on social media, has shocked and saddened people across Goa. While the loss of a young life is heartbreaking in itself, the circumstances surrounding this tragedy raise disturbing questions about public humiliation, abuse of authority, and the devastating psychological impact of social and institutional pressure. There can be no justification for subjecting any individual to intimidation, harassment, or public shaming in the name of enforcing civic discipline. Cleanliness and civic responsibility are important, but they must never come at the cost of human dignity. In today’s digital age, a video uploaded or circulated without thought can instantly expose an individual to ridicule, character assassination, and emotional trauma. The consequences can be irreversible. Reports surrounding this incident have also reignited longstanding concerns about the conduct of the Goa Police. Over the years, the state has witnessed several controversial custodial deaths, allegations of excessive force, and accusations of high-handed behaviour by certain police personnel. The government and the police leadership cannot afford to treat this case as just another statistic.
Jubel D’Cruz, Mumbai
