School safety
This refers to a recent news report concerning an alleged assault on a student and a parent. I wish to share a similar incident that occurred at a school in Paroda a couple of months ago. A family friend, a single mother, experienced a distressing situation involving her children. Her son, a Grade IV student, was reportedly assaulted and injured by a classmate using a pointer, requiring hospital treatment. When this was brought to the notice of the class teacher, no action was taken. Prior to this, her daughter, who is in Grade VIII in the same school, was allegedly targeted during class when an object with inappropriate remarks was thrown at her. Although reported to the headmistress, no action was taken against the individual involved. Seeking resolution, the matter was taken to the management of the school. During a meeting with the administration, the parent felt intimidated, as personal devices were requested to be kept aside, while the administration recorded the interaction. The meeting concluded with harsh words and threats regarding the enrolment of the children if the family could not adjust to the school’s environment. The parent also expressed concern over difficulty of seeking formal recourse through local authorities. The primary question is whether the leadership of such an institution should take immediate cognisance, initiate proper disciplinary action and ensure accountability or otherwise.
Prashant Kudalkar, Margao
Burial spaces
There is an acute shortage of burial spaces in the country. The number of available burial grounds has declined considerably, causing inconvenience and distress to families. The shortage of burial spaces has become a serious issue that requires urgent attention. The authorities concerned should take immediate steps to address the problem, identify suitable land for burial grounds and ensure that adequate facilities are available to the public.
Jubel D’Cruz, Mumbai
GI for dry fish
Goa is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, with several traditional products earning recognition through the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. However, one of the most cherished ingredients in Goan cuisine, dry fish, is yet to receive such recognition. The government has reportedly applied for a GI tag for the traditional coconut-leaf broom, locally known as Muugdyachi Saaran, Vhiranche Saaran or Zhaadu. Goa has also secured GI recognition for several indigenous products, including Goan cashew feni, bebinca, Mankurad mango, Agassaim brinjal, Goa Hilario mango and Goa Mussarad mango, among others. However, Goan dry fish does not feature among the recognised GI products. Dry fish has been an integral part of Goan food traditions for generations. Prepared by salting and sun-drying fresh fish, this age-old preservation method allows fish to be stored for months, particularly during the monsoon when fishing activities can be disrupted by rough seas. Locally, dried mackerel is widely used to prepare a popular preparation called ‘para’, made using fish preserved through traditional methods. Dry fish is especially enjoyed with rice gruel, locally known as ‘pez’, making it a comforting and familiar meal in many Goan households. A GI tag could help protect traditional production methods and strengthen the identity of local products. The Goa government needs to explore the possibility of securing a GI tag for this traditional delicacy and preserve its cultural and culinary significance. Such an initiative would not merely recognise a culinary tradition but also safeguard the knowledge and livelihoods of generations of fishing families. Goa’s heritage deserves to be preserved through the humble foods that continue to define everyday Goan life.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Traffic congestion
The High Court of Bombay at Goa on Wednesday directed the state government to implement a series of traffic management measures along the Dayanand Bandodkar (DB) Marg to tackle the persistent congestion linked to casino-related activities, illegal parking and indiscriminate passenger drop-offs in Panaji. This is a welcome move, as the road stretch indeed becomes fully chaotic every evening and late at night, with traffic coming to a standstill due to congestion linked to casino-related activities and illegal parking. Commuters have been facing this problem since the last many years. With the High Court taking a serious note of the issue, I hope the state government will implement the directed measures along the Dayanand Bandodkar Marg road stretch.
Jerry Fernandes, Saligao
