Saving Goa
The decision by the state government to shift the proposed Unity Mall and Prashasan Stambh projects from Chimbel village to another site marks a significant victory for the villagers of Chimbel. This decision stands as a powerful reminder that development cannot be imposed without the consent, participation and trust of local communities. For the people of Chimbel, the struggle was never against development itself. It was about protecting their land, environment, culture and way of life. The proposed projects raised serious concerns about ecological damage, strain on local infrastructure and erosion of the village’s social fabric. When these concerns went unheard, the villagers chose to raise their voices peacefully, persistently and collectively. Their success highlights an important lesson for governments at all levels. True development begins with dialogue. Villages are not empty spaces. They are living communities with histories, livelihoods and deep emotional ties to the land. Ignoring local sentiment not only breeds resistance but also undermines democratic principles. The shifting of the Unity Mall and Prashasan Stambh, therefore, acknowledges that people matter, that grassroots movements can influence policy, and that governance must be participatory. However, while this battle has been won, the larger war to save Goa is far from over. Across the state, similar struggles continue against unchecked construction and environmental degradation. Goa’s unique identity, its green landscapes, traditional villages and vibrant culture are under constant threat. Chimbel villagers have shown that when people stand united, change is possible.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Animal cruelty
Recent news reports have indicated massive killing of around 1,100 stray dogs in Telangana. Animal rights activists reported that around 200-300 dogs were killed via poisonous injections in Hanamkonda and Kamareddy districts in the state. Is there no law or an animal rights commission to stop this brutal killing of animals? The acts were allegedly carried out by or under the direction of local village heads (sarpanchas) to fulfil election promises of controlling stray dog population, which is atrocious. Following complaints from activists, police registered FIRs against multiple village officials under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. Immediate punishment is necessary in such cases. In a separate recent incident in Madhya Pradesh, over 200 birds (parrots, pigeons, sparrows) were found dead in Khargone district in late December 2025 due to suspected food poisoning. How can human beings be so cruel towards these innocent lives?
Rajesh Banaulikar, Arpora
Tragic death
The tragic and untimely death of one of Maharashtra’s tallest leaders Ajit Pawar has left everyone in a state of shock. Popularly known as ‘Dada”, the 66-year-old Ajit Pawar was a go-getter. In politics, there are always enemies. However, Ajit Pawar was never hated even by his opponents. Known for his punctual ways and seriousness of purpose with a massive grip over administration, Pawar never disappointed after promising to get some work done. A grassroots man, his connection with people was like family. He knew many, if not most, of the local workers at Baramati by name. Laced with witty punches, Pawar instantly bonded with the common man when he spoke. Besides, his straightforward and fearless ways, too, endeared the leader to the masses. That is exactly why there was a sea of crowd for his last glimpse and final journey. Leaders cutting across party lines were present at Baramati to pay tributes. Maharashtra will miss its favourite ‘Dada’.
Ganapathi Bhat, Akola
Handling Trump
Donald Trump has been styling himself as the Sheriff of the World strapped with 2 Colts to his belt, one spewing bullets and the other tariffs. So it is this or that and nothing in between. ‘Once you are in his gunsights, the best is to play possum’ has been the policy of most of the countries that he has been targeting. But putting levity aside, one must say that we, the world, have been handling Trump wrongly. We should call his bluff, the latest being on Greenland. Trump went to Davos and threatened NATO and the EU on Greenland. His speech was replete with insults. As soon as Trump started talking about taking over Greenland, he should have been rebuffed. Denmark should have given notice to Trump to wind up his US base in Greenland and move out. That should have been lesson enough. Then Trump would not have continued to insult the people of Greenland. The Denmark PM seems to be a tough lady and seems to be playing it right by getting some of the NATO countries’ troops to come into Greenland ostensibly for an Arctic military exercise. With some of the countries of the EU protesting the US takeover of Greenland, better sense seems to have prevailed and Trump towards the end of the Davos meet seems to have backed off from doing anything. He has enough things to keep him occupied and he has diverted himself to Iran.
S Kamat, Mysuru
