Torchbearers of Anjuna
I have been closely following news reports on Anjuna, particularly regarding the persistent issue of noise pollution. I commend the villagers who are bravely standing their ground and fighting this menace, especially when it appears that certain authorities have turned a blind eye — or worse, are enabling the violators who continue to flout High Court directives. It is crucial that Goans from other coastal villages extend their solidarity to the residents of Anjuna. The way permissions are being handed out—seemingly with little regard for the law—suggests that this issue is not isolated. If it hasn’t already, the problem will soon spread to other villages along the coast. In fact, I have observed a similar disturbing trend emerging in Colva over the past few months. It’s high time we acted collectively before our once-peaceful communities are drowned out by unchecked noise pollution.
Arwin Mesquita, Colva
Shield vulnerable children
It is disheartening to witness children begging at railway stations—often driven to this plight due to poverty, abandonment, or even trafficking. Many are missing children – either kidnapped, forced to flee unsafe homes, or simply abandoned by their families. Each case reflects a failure in our collective responsibility to protect the most vulnerable among us. Addressing this crisis requires more than sympathy. It demands urgent, coordinated action from government agencies and social organisations. Education must be at the heart of any long-term solution, but immediate interventions—rescue, rehabilitation, and support—are equally vital. The line between safety and danger for these children is razor-thin. Only through constant vigilance and proactive measures can we ensure they are protected and given a chance at a better future.
Diomedes R Pereira, Corlim
Pension bonanza
Former vice-president Jagdeep Dhankhar’s recent application to restore his pension as a one-term MLA from Rajasthan has reignited public debate on the ethics of availing multiple pensions for high-ranking officials. Though legally entitled—having served as an MLA, MP, governor, and vice-president—Dhankhar is now eligible for over Rs 2.8 lakh in monthly pensions, along with extensive government-provided perks. This case, while lawful, highlights a deeper issue: should public funds sustain multiple pensions and privileges for individuals already enjoying significant benefits, especially in a country where most citizens struggle with inadequate pensions and rising costs? The stark disparity raises questions of fairness, accountability, and moral responsibility. Dhankhar’s case is symbolic of a larger systemic problem. It’s time to consider reforms—such as unified pension ceilings, means-testing, and transparent public audits—to ease the burden on taxpayers and restore trust in public institutions.
Everette Assis Telles, Margao
Clamour for quota
Mumbai heaved a sigh of relief after Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange declared ‘victory’ and called off his protest. Jarange has been demanding that Marathas be recognised as Kunbis under the OBC category and issued relevant government resolutions. His mass protest led to crippling road traffic and disruption of public life in south Mumbai. The political leveraging will prove to be difficult for Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis as it appears that his two deputies are not lending much support to him on this issue. This further crystallised the perception that the three leaders are hardly on the same page, though they jointly make the government. For the Marathas, especially in Marathwada, the relative success of this agitation does not spell the end of their troubles. As elections approach, it is common for politicians to promise reservations to influential groups without fully assessing whether they meet constitutional criteria. Unjustified, unconstitutional reservation can also deepen social divides. Communities excluded from quotas may feel offended, fuelling further caste-based politics. The fight for justice must not turn into a race for quotas. Affirmative action should be based on evidence of backwardness, not sheer numbers or pressure tactics.
Gregory Fernandes, Mumbai
Paragon of perseverance
Kinzang Lhamo of Bhutan had reached the finishing line last in the women’s marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Surely she had comprehended much before the end of the race that even a Bronze medal would not be garnered; yet she continued to remain in the competition instead of quitting, ultimately completing the entire 26.2 mile course in 3 hours 52 minutes and 59 seconds by battling the hilly terrain and heated conditions! Indeed what message had the ‘last woman running’ Lhamo imparted to the world! Instead of looking forward to the ultimate result, we must utilise our capabilities to the maximum. On the occasion of Teacher’s Day, Kinzang Lhamo can be commemorated as a role model for her tenacity, perseverance and never-say-defeat attitude!
Kajal Chatterjee, Kolkata
