Human trafficking
The recent news report on human trafficking (NT January 10) once again exposes one of the most shameful crimes thriving silently in our society. It raises a troubling question: how can human beings, in their pursuit of quick and illegal money, turn fellow humans into commodities? Human trafficking is not merely a crime; it is a grave violation of dignity, freedom and basic human values. Those involved in this trade lure, coerce or force vulnerable people – mostly women and young girls – into exploitation. One is compelled to ask how their conscience permits such acts. Can they imagine this happening to their own sisters, daughters or family members? The thought alone should be unbearable, yet greed and moral blindness prevail. Trafficking thrives on poverty, desperation, lack of awareness and weak enforcement. Victims are promised jobs or a better future but are instead trapped in conditions akin to modern slavery. Fear, violence and social stigma silence many survivors, allowing the crime to remain hidden and unreported. The government’s role must be proactive, not merely reactive. Preventive policing, strong intelligence networks, regular monitoring of vulnerable areas and strict action against traffickers and middlemen are essential. Fast track courts must ensure swift justice, while survivor rehabilitation should include counselling, education, legal assistance and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Samir Khan, Mapusa
Assembly session
The winter session of Goa legislative assembly started on Monday with the Governor’s address. It was disrupted by the Opposition over no mention of the recent Arpora fire incident and the resultant loss of lives. The second day also saw a major disruption during a special discussion marking the 150th anniversary of the national song Vande Mataram. The uproar was triggered when AAP legislator Venzy Viegas claimed that no member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) had ever uttered “Vande Mataram”. The remarks led to heated arguments, with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant objecting to the remarks made. He directed that the statements regarding the RSS be expunged from the House records, urging members to stick to the topic of the national song rather than attacking specific organisations. As the assembly session is only of five days, it should be utilised properly with discussions taken up on major issues and clearance of important bills. In order to have a smooth session, the ministers should be ready to answer the questions posed. We already have many issues wherein villagers are opposing projects coming up in their villages.
Raju Ramamurthy, Vasco
Opinion Poll
On January 16, 1967, Goa etched its name in history by becoming the only state in India to decide its future through an opinion poll. At stake was nothing less than our identity – whether Goa should merge with Maharashtra or retain its distinct existence. People spoke with clarity and courage, choosing to preserve Konkani, our culture and the unique spirit of Goa. That decision paved the way for statehood two decades later, ensuring that Goa remained not just a geographical entity but a cultural beacon. As we approach the diamond jubilee of this historic event on January 16, 2026, it is time to reflect on the enduring relevance of that choice. The Opinion Poll was not merely a political exercise; it was a collective assertion of self-respect and democratic will. It reminds us that democracy is the strongest when rooted in people’s aspirations, not imposed decisions. Yet, even as we celebrate, we cannot ignore the unfulfilled promise of special status for Goa. Such a measure could have insulated our scarce land from the predatory grip of land sharks and speculative interests. Just as the Opinion Poll safeguarded our identity, special status would have safeguarded our resources. Its absence continues to leave Goa vulnerable, and this diamond jubilee year is the right moment to renew that demand with vigour. The celebrations of this milestone must go beyond ceremonial observances. They should rekindle awareness among the younger generation about the sacrifices made to safeguard Goa’s ‘Asmita’. Schools, colleges and civic bodies should engage in debates, seminars and cultural programmes that highlight the legacy of the Opinion Poll.
Assis Everette Telles, Margao
Another smart city
It has been reported that Rs 50 crore has been sanctioned for Vasco by the Goa State Urban Development Agency (GSUDA) and that it would invest Rs 150 crore sanctioned under the Smart Cities Mission. Good to know that Vasco is the next target city to be smartened up after Panaji. Both the cities have different sets of problems in terms of population, traffic, roads, lanes, buildings, utility pipelines (gas, sewerage, drinking etc.) and so forth. It would be an interesting challenge to make Vasco a smart city in contrast to Panaji. We hope the GSUDA, authorities, contractors, engineers, workers and others, who were involved in making the capital city smart, will learn from the blunders.
Sridhar D Iyer, Caranzalem
